A “scoping study” for a coastal management program which will include “the Brisbane Water estuary, Broken Bay and the Lower Hawkesbury river” has been completed, according to a report Central Coast Council.
The local coastal zones will be included in the Hawkesbury-Nepean River Coastal Management Program, which will be run in partnership between six councils.
The scoping study is the first stage of the program.
Central Coast mayor Cr Lisa Matthews said the study had highlighted the importance of the waterways to the local economy and the importance of collaboration.
“The scoping study has shown us that the economic value of the Hawkesbury-Nepean River catchments is significant, with more than $270 million in fixed foreshore assets, $45 million per annuum in tourism benefits, $5 million per annum in direct economic value from river-based industries and around $500 million per annum in associated industries.
“This is why it is important to work collaboratively with our neighbours to ensure we have a plan to manage potential impacts such as sea level rise, urban development, waterway use and planning differences across the local government areas.
“Stage two of the program will include detailed studies that help to identify, analyse and evaluate risks, vulnerabilities and opportunities across the estuary system,” she said.
The scoping study was funded by the Councils and the NSW Government through the Coastal and Estuaries Grants program.
Further funding will be sought for the next stages of the program.
SOURCE:
Media release, 19 Oct 2020
Lisa Matthews, Central Coast Council