Masterplan seeks to redress problems

I refer to Margaret Lund's comments (May 4) regarding the Ettalong Beach foreshore and her criticism of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber, like many groups in our free and open society, made numerous detailed representations to Gosford Council during the public consultation process for the Ettalong Beach Foreshore Masterplan which has now been adopted.

Mrs Lund is clearly unaware of the great deal of studies that have been undertaken by environmental experts over the last five years which led to the adopted upgrading plan for the foreshore between Picnic Parade and Bangalow St.

Contrary to Mrs Lund's views, the Chamber does not advocate the wholesale removal of the dunal vegetation.

However, the section between Picnic Parade and Beach St is clearly degraded, has obscured views and access, acted as a haven for anti-social behaviour and created an unsafe environment along the beachfront.

Prior to the mid-1980s, the Ettalong foreshore was a thriving and popular town beach with canoes, sailing boats and families enjoying the safe clean waters.

Regrettably, due to poor maintenance, decaying facilities and the uncontrolled foreshore vegetation, the canoes and sail boats have gone along with the families who no longer feel safe using this section of the beach.

The Ettalong Beach Foreshore Masterplan seeks to redress these problems through a multi-million dollar staged upgrade which includes the retention of the dunal vegetation, installation of viewing platforms and boardwalks, improvements to public access and substantial landscaping.

It is vitally important that these works occur so that the community can once again take maximum advantage of Ettalong Beach's greatest asset.

Margaret Lund says "all of us must learn to live with the planet" but we must also learn to live with each other.

Insults over power and money do not assist that process and only highlight Mrs Lund's lack of understanding and inability to work with a range of groups.

The business community is very proud of its contribution to the Peninsula lifestyle and will continue to take a consultative approach on important issues.

Debra Wales, Umina