Local state MP Yasmin Catley is livid the NSW Government has backflipped on its Swansea Channel dredging commitment.
Earlier this year, in May, Minister for Transport David Elliott advised the Swansea member that sand scoured from “upcoming projects” would be transferred to Blacksmiths Beach to renourish the area.
But, now, more than six months later, it’s been revealed it will not be immediately transported to the beach.
Instead, it’ll be stockpiled on the sand islands.
“We planned to complete a dredging campaign prior to Christmas to assist navigation during the boating season,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.
“Because of the discovery of endangered shore birds, including the Little Terns which are currently nesting on sand island until February, we are unable to start at this time.
“It will now take place following the end of the nesting season… around February.
“As part of ongoing monitoring of the channel, we have identified the ‘Airforce Channel’, which runs east-west between Naru Point and the lake, has been naturally deepening and now provides an alternative navigational route into Lake Macquarie.
“We’ll be marking that area with markers in December to indicate the temporary additional access into Lake Macquarie.”
However, Ms Catley said the announcement was the latest example of the NSW Government failing to deliver a suitable dreading program for Swansea Channel.
“This news is disappointing for Bring Blacksmiths Back – a local community group who are strong advocates for renourishing Blacksmiths Beach,” she explained.
“I, myself, am extremely disappointed, too.
“It makes perfect sense to use the dredged sand to renourish Blacksmiths Beach.
“But, the NSW Government is failing to honour its commitment to this plan.
“I have been a strong supporter of the Bring Blacksmiths Back group in its consistent lobbying for sand to be transported to the beach.
“And, again, the Liberals have well and truly let them down.
“The local community is tired of Swansea Channel not being dredged.
“It is the gateway to Lake Macquarie, yet it is virtually unnavigable.
“It is time the NSW Government followed through with their dredging commitments.”
For more news stories:
- Staff says resounding ‘no’ to uni proposal
- Manning Park makeover to delight local dogs
- $100m investment in Hunter’s green hydrogen future
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
