Coastal Zone Management on the Northern Beaches

Northern Beaches Council is inviting the community to take part in a discussion about how to manage coastal erosion. This follows the devastating impact the June east coast low had across the Northern Beaches, in particular at Collaroy-Narrabeen.

The draft Coastal Erosion Policy was tabled by Northern Beaches Council Administrator, Dick Persson, at the recent Council Meeting and looks at the various options available including coastal protection works and beach nourishment.

It has been developed to guide Council's approach to the protection of public and private property from future coastal erosion including the construction of coastal protection works.

The community consultation aims to seek submissions from beach users, affected residents and the broader community. Submissions close 17 August 2016.

"The community's right to access and enjoy Collaroy-Narrabeen beach is paramount and this policy seeks to balance the needs of all stakeholders. For this reason, I am of the firm belief that any long term protection works planned must be accompanied by sand nourishment," said Mr Persson.

A recent report by the Sydney Coastal Council's Group identified that to combat the impact of sea level rise in the Collaroy-Narrabeen embayment significant volumes of sand will be required to mitigate the effects of sea-level rise and other climate change influences on coastal processes.

"Beach nourishment is an expensive exercise that is only affordable if it is undertaken collectively and Council believes there is a case for multiple levels of government to work together on this issue in terms of both organisation and funding. Our beaches are assets for the whole community, not just those that live in a local government area," Mr Persson said.

This policy, if adopted, will require amendments to Council's Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) and feedback is also being sought on the proposed amendments.

Have Your Say

The draft Coastal Erosion Policy for the Northern Beaches and amended CZMP are on public exhibition online and at Council's Customer Service Centres.

Information Drop-In Sessions:

  • Saturday 23 July, 11am – 2pm: Collaroy Beach Reserve
  • Sunday 31 July, 9am – 12pm: Collaroy Beach Reserve
  • Monday 8 August, 6pm – 8pm: Dee Why Civic Centre

To find out more or make a submission visit yoursaywarringah.com.au or write to Northern Beaches Council, 725 Pittwater Rd, Dee Why NSW 2099 marked 'Draft Coastal Erosion Policy'.

Submissions close Wednesday 17 August 2016.