The eagerly-awaited Stockton Beach mass sand nourishment project is expected to take another step forward.
It follows a Stockton Special Advisory Panel (SSAP) meeting on Monday 16 March, which discussed the start of works funded by the $21.5 million investment from the NSW Government.
It’s understood the completed environmental assessments are now being compiled into a decision pack so a determination can be made under part five of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (EP&A Act).
Once resolved, the planning approval will be used as the basis to apply for the permits and licences needed from other agencies.
“I’m pleased to see the conversation move on from background studies and environmental assessments to the next stage of the project with the market sounding,” SSAP chair and Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said.
“I look forward to seeing this component completed in coming months.
“It’ll provide us with the appropriate information to form contracts to be included in tenders for dredging works.
“This is a first for NSW… and will pave a way for coastal communities across NSW, too.
“It’s a collaborative project with all levels of government working to protect Stockton Beach.”
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has hired dredging experts British Maritime Technology (BMT).
The company will conduct studies to understand availability of dredges in the global market, what the key risks and challenges are, and which contract options offer the best value for money.
“This is critical because it’ll help ensure the large‑scale sand nourishment works can be delivered efficiently and effectively,” Mr Crakanthorp said.
“The procurement strategy BMT is developing will support DCCEEW to prepare and release a tender for dredging works to deliver mass sand nourishment.
“The SSAP will continue to get updates on the progress on these activities, meeting up to three times annually.”
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