A representative from the Office of Environment and Heritage has told a meeting of residents they've known about the erosion problems on Stockton Beach since at least 1995, yet nothing's been done to find a permanent solution.
Around 400 residents gathered for last night's information session held by Newcastle Council, with many saying they are fed up with the temporary measures to address the issue, which are not working.
In particular, the use of excavators to move sand from one part of the eroded beach to another part has left residents disheartened.
There are now real fears that the local surf club and a nearby childcare centre could simply disappear into the sea if something isn't done soon.
Beach erosion has become even worse with East Coast Lows blamed for stripping a metre of shoreline away each year.
Some of the permanent solutions being discussed include breakwalls, groynes and offshore reefs.
A major source of concern is that Stockton doesn't appear to meet the criteria to be classified as a coastal erosion hotspot - which would qualify for state government funding.
5000 signatures have been gathered on a petition to "Save Stockton Beach", with 10,000 required to have the issue debated in state parliament in the hope of pressuring the government to act. Residents and Newcastle Council are now working together to present a business case to get funding from Berejiklian government .
 |
| Fears Stockton Childcare Centre Could Disappear Into The Sea. Picture:theherald.com.au |
