The project to reopen Narrabeen Lagoon is one step closer following the selection of a contractor to undertake the major excavation of sand at the entrance to Narrabeen Lagoon.

A/CEO Ben Taylor said the works were expected to be complete by the summer school holidays.

“The need to remove the sand earlier in the cycle than usual is due to very low rainfall and significant swell and sand movements causing build up in the lagoon entrance,” Mr Taylor said.

“This project will ensure the lagoon entrance remains open for a number of years, reducing flood risk and improving the appearance of the water at the lagoon entrance.

“We are fast tracking the relevant state government approvals required for a job of this significance.”

The work involves major excavation of 50,000 cubic metres of sand to replenish the beach at Collaroy-Narrabeen and is expected to take 12 weeks to complete.

In the interim, rain is forecast for this weekend so Council will be monitoring lagoon levels 24/7 across the weekend and ready to take further action as needed.

“While we don’t anticipate any significant increase in water levels we are preparing a flood channel at the entrance so the lagoon can open if water reach a high enough level,” Mr Taylor said.

“If rainfall causes the lagoon level to rise these works will allow the lagoon to overtop the entrance and drain.

“Whilst we would like to open the lagoon at the current level, there is too much sand in the entrance to allow a successful opening. If water levels rise by another 30cm a short-term opening should be possible.

Flood channels will also be prepared for Manly, Dee Why and Curl Curl lagoons if required.