'Lack of funds' is blamed

Gosford Council has issued a statement defending its lack of progress on the Ettalong Foreshore Plan of Management.

The statement has blamed "lack of funds" for the delay, claiming that the total bill to complete all works outlined in the plan was estimated at more than $6 million.

"Lack of funds is usually why works don't occur, as well as not having a plan in place and actions to implement," the statement said.

"Funding received in 2005 has been used on consultancy fees and works.

"It is hard to estimate the costs for all of the actions of the Plan of Management.

"However, some estimates for key high priority works include the town beach precinct including the beach facilities building and playground and some landscaping at $4 million, Ferry Rd amenities at $100,000, cycleway at $400,000 and rock revetment construction at $1.5 million.

"The plan for Ettalong calls for substantial and costly works.

"It is impossible to apply for enough funds to complete all works.

"Council officers are currently working through the high priority actions list in the plan."

The statement also claimed that council had applied for seven grants since 2008 but had only been successful in three of them, totalling $150,900.

This included a $60,000 Metropolitan Greenspace Grant in 2008 for pathway works, a Department of Environment and Climate Change grant of $48,900 through a Coastal Management Program and the recent funding announcement of $150,000 through the Federal Government's Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program for construction of two viewing platforms along Ettalong foreshore.

Media statement, 8 Mar 2010 Alison Hood, Gosford Council