Waiting for geotechnical report
Gosford Council's manager of engineering services Mr John Cragg has reported a delay in the geotechnical report on the stability of Mt Ettalong Rd near the hairpin bend.
Mr Cragg said the delay was due to the large volume of work experienced by engineering consultants Douglas Partners who carried out the geotechnical assessment.
"Unfortunately we are still waiting for the results of a geotechnical study on the area," Mr Cragg said.
"This is out of council's control and we can do nothing but wait for the results from the engineering consultants.
"However, council has received verbal advice from the company advising that no further immediate action is required at the site.
"Given the advice, this has reassured council that the safety of road users is well maintained.
"Council understands the dilemma associated with finalising the report and expects it to arrive by November 27.
"Following this, council will be able to sit down and analyse the results before making any further decisions."
Meanwhile, minor work to the southern side of the roadway was carried out by council workers in recent weeks to ensure the road surface remained waterproof.
Mr Cragg said work included the installation of a stormwater drain and bitumen kerb to direct rainwater into the drain to prevent water from spilling out over the embankment.
He said minor delays had been experienced due to poor weather conditions but work was now completed.
Concern over the stability of a section of Mt Ettalong Rd rose after Pearl Beach resident Ms Kay Williams noticed a change to the area following increased rainfall in early October.
Ms Williams immediately contacted council to alert them to the section of road where the nearby embankment seemed to be weakening.
Geotechnical engineers inspected the site on October 12 and began preparing a full report to council.
Clare Graham, 23 Nov 2009
Interviewee: John Cragg, Gosford Council