Support for protection

Subsequent to my Forum letter (Peninsula News, July 9) on Ettalong foreshore plans, Council released the review of those plans carried out by the Department of Lands.

The following are extracts from their letter to Council dated May 2007:

"It is evident that this foreshore is subject to divergent pressures including erosive conditions from wind and estuary currents which affect beach stability and capacity to protect infrastructure, fulfill social needs and the developing economic needs of the community.

"A number of recommendations within the POM will require additional environmental, social and scientific studies in order to be undertaken or implemented."

"A main point of concern is the age of the base document ... During the ensuing period environmental conditions within the study area have altered significantly, resulting in a need to generally update the documents."

"The POM must include a strategy to address foreshore erosion."

"A coastal engineer should be engaged to design a structure to dissipate wave energy in a more effective and environmentally sustainable way ... the estuarine system does not naturally replenish sand deposits on this beach area [refers to the need for an effective ongoing sand replenishment program]."

I believe these comments support the foreshore protection concerns outlined in my earlier letter.

For the sake of future generations, it is important Council makes sustainable decisions with the benefit of up-to-date expert input.

Michael Gillian Ettalong Beach