Barriers are 'precautionary'

Concrete barriers along a section of Pearl Beach Dr have been installed as a "precautionary measure", according to Gosford Council's manager of engineering services Mr John Cragg.

Mr Cragg said council officers noticed "a slight slumping" of the road's rock retaining wall, following a routine inspection of the area.

"We do not believe the road to be in any danger."

The concrete barriers were installed as a precautionary measure, he said.

Mr Cragg said council was in the process of reviewing "a priority list" from geotechnical consultants Shirley Consulting Engineers to undertake restoration and stabilisation works along Pearl Beach Dr.

He said the list would allow council to undertake prioritised works, based on financial and safety impacts.

Mr Cragg said council was also in consultation with the National Parks and Wildlife Service to ensure there were no environmental impacts to the area throughout the project.

"The cost of undertaking all works along Pearl Beach Dr would be in excess of $1million," Mr Cragg said.

"The priority list will allow council to undertake the most important sections first, based on what funding is available."

Mr Cragg said the priority list would allow council to begin work on Pearl Beach Dr towards the end of the year, once council finds a suitable tenderer for the project.

Media release, 12 Aug 2008 Clare Graham, 13 Aug 2008 Interviewee: John Cragg, Gosford Council