Tweed Shire Council has received crucial funding assistance from the State Government to plan for the next stage of protection along the Kingscliff beachfront.
A total of $100,000 has been granted to the Tweed for coastal management, with $75,000 of that figure to be spent on a number of studies looking at conditions along the beach, while $25,000 will be spent on updating the Tweed Coast Hazard Study.
Tweed mayor coun-cillor Barry Longland said the funding shows the NSW Government is taking the erosion issue seriously.
“We are very grateful for this funding as it will allow us to get a real handle on what is happening and what the next step should be,” Cr Longland said.
Tweed Shire Council’s Natural Resources Management Coordinator Jane Lofthouse said it is vital to get an accurate picture of what is happening along the beach before planning can begin on the next stage of protection measures.
“There are a number of studies that need to be done, looking at things like the tides, sand movement and how the waves are being affected by the measures that have already been put in place,” Ms Lofthouse said.
“The next stage in the protection of the beach will require significant resources and we must ensure that, before any money is spent, it is going to be effective.”
Work is continuing on a revetment wall between the Cudgen Headland Surf Club and the Kingscliff Bowls Club as part of temporary protection measures and should be completed in time for the Easter long weekend.
Cr Longland said, once the studies were complete, the information will form the basis of a proposal to the State to provide more significant funding to address the erosion issues.
“Hopefully the results of these studies will form part of the dialogue between Council and the State towards finding a permanent solution,” said Cr Longland.
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