Stormwater outlet erosion 'solution being finalised'
A "longer-term solution" to erosion around the Rickard St stormwater outlet on Umina Beach "is being finalised", a Umina resident has been told.
Without providing further details, Central Coast Council's infrastructure services director Mr Boris Bolgoff told resident Mr Ian Weekley: "A solution is being finalised and it is anticipated that the project will be delivered within the first quarter of the financial year.
"Developing a longer-term solution has involved complex investigation across departments within Council to ensure an effective solution can be applied without compromising the natural habitat of the beach environment," Mr Bolgoff said in an email dated Thursday, August 11.
"The recent storm and weather events experienced over the past year have contributed to the erosion of this site.
"However Council Officers are continuing to monitor the area and take any necessary steps to ensure the safety of pedestrians utilising the footpath and reserve area at this location.
"In regard to the temporary maintenance repairs carried out at the stormwater outlet at the end of Rickard St, minor erosion protection works consisted of reinstating sand around the drain and the placement of geofabric, hay bales and wooden stakes to hold in place."
Mr Bolgoff wrote that it was unlike that kerb and gutter would be installed in Rickard St "for many years".
"Kerb and gutter is delivered as part of a road reconstruction upgrade project which includes street drainage, kerb and gutter, new road pavement and often footpath.
"Requests for infrastructure, such as kerb and gutter, are predominantly listed for consideration of funding through Council's Capital Works Program.
"All works are prioritised against technical criteria which results in a ranking of projects."
Mr Bolgoff did not state what the technical criteria were.
"As funding is limited, budget allocations are made to projects with the highest ranking.
"The upgrade of Rickard St has been assessed in line with the above process and is not currently the highest priority therefore is unlikely to be undertaken for many years."
SOURCE:
Email, 11 Aug 2022
Boris Bolgoff, Central Coast Council