MidCoast Coastal Erosion Scheme on the Table

A multi-disciplinary Coastal Management Group has been formed to focus on Old Bar and Manning Point as an interim step in developing a Coastal Management Program for the MidCoast region.

With coastal erosion posing an ongoing challenge along the NSW coastline, the State Government has placed a high priority on Coastal Management, acknowledging MidCoast hot-spots Old Bar and Manning Point as candidates for immediate action.

Since meeting with former Planning Minister Rob Stokes in January, the Coastal Management Group has commenced investigating a number of interim initiatives that include sand-scraping and dune nourishment.

Lisa Schiff, Director, Planning and Natural Systems at MidCoast Council explains, “Over the past few weeks we’ve worked closely with Government representatives, our local MP Stephen Bromhead, and key stakeholders including the Old Bar Beach Sand Replenishment Group. Together we’ve agreed a path forward that encompasses both short-term “buying-time” projects with Old Bar as the focus, and the priority development of a Coastal Management Program.”

“The issue of coastal erosion is complex and one that’s not going away. It calls for a robust approach underpinned by experience, multiple skill sets and collaboration”, Lisa added.

The group will meet again tomorrow, 2 February, to advance a short-term project plan, which will then be included as part of a State Government grant funding application, currently in progress.