Council describes decision as 'clear way forward'

Central Coast Council has described its decision to apply for 50-50 dredging funding as providing "a clear way forward".

The media release announcing the decision stated that the Council had agreed to apply for State Government funding to contribute to the cost of dredging the Ettalong Channel and called for the State Government to provide emergency funding in the short term.

Mayor Cr Jane Smith said the decision on dredging Ettalong Channel provided a clear path forward but required the State Government to take action now.

"We have agreed to apply to the State Government for Rescue Our Waterways funding," said Cr Smith.

"It is clear that this funding will not be available for several months and that it will not cover even 50 percent of the cost of dredging Ettalong Channel.

"In light of this, we are calling on the State Government to provide emergency funding in the short term to ensure Ettalong Channel remains open.

"The State Government has dredged Ettalong Channel twice in the past, they have the equipment and funding to take immediate action and we calling on them to do this.

"Today's decision provides a clear way forward for the Ettalong community, Council and the State Government.

"To develop a long-term solution, we will create a working party of stakeholders to look at maintenance dredging, technical issues, environmental implications, community impacts and funding."

Council has agreed that any dredged sand be used to replenish works on adjacent beaches.

SOURCE:

Media release, 15 May 2018

Jane Smith, Central Coast Council