Ettalong Beach 'nourishment' to start soon
Beach nourishment works at Ettalong Beach, which are part of the redevelopment of Ettalong Beach foreshore, are expected to start within the next two weeks.
Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales said it was great to see construction fencing in place and machinery starting the revetment wall and reclamation works after such a long campaign to fully fund the project.
"We are all very excited to see this underway including the new restaurant facility which will be located on the reclaimed area in front of the iconic Norfolk Island Pines," said Mr Wales.
"The restaurant is critical to the successful activation of the waterfront area and will provide essential income through the leasing of the facility so as to pay for the maintenance and upkeep of the foreshore area.
"It is also an important component of the overall tourist infrastructure that will draw people to Ettalong Beach and boost the fortunes of the retail centre.
"The success of this project comes back to the $2 million Federal Grant which was a key election promise made by Federal Member for Robertson Deborah O'Neill following representations by the Chamber of Commerce.
"This has been followed by nearly $3 million by Gosford Council which has ensured the completion of the Masterplan works and the ultimate success of the project.
"We understand that the sand re-nourishment of Ettalong Beach, which will include pumping sand from the centre shoal (off Wagstaffe) onto Ettalong Beach restoring the beach width to 15 metres, is due to start shortly.
"It is expected that the overall works will take seven to eight months to complete but will be well worth the wait with the final project delivering a first class piece of public infrastructure that will enhance the foreshore and boost activity in Ettalong Beach.
"The Chamber will continue to lobby the Council to make further funds available for other key foreshore projects including the restoration of the failing revetment walls along Lance Webb Reserve," said Mr Wales.
Media release, 9 Jul 2013
Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce