Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4325 7362 Email us

2004 (c) Peninsula Community Access Newspaper Inc

 

Council moves to protect dunes

 

Gosford Council has decided to impose conditions on the surf carnival planned for Umina Beach in February to prevent damage to sand dunes and dune vegetation.

The preventive measures came after notice of motion was given by Cr Terri Latella.

The council decided not to allow the erection of any structures over sand dune vegetation or to remove any sand dune vegetation to erect any structures.

Vehicle access to the beach would be permitted at three points, rather than 12 as had originally been planned.

The beach area used for the carnival would be reduced to protect developing dunes.

The council required protective fencing to be erected around foredunes and insipient dunes and to protect dune vegetation.

Carnival organisers would be told they must have staff present at all times when the carnival was underway to prevent and to minimise disturbance to dune vegetation.

Organisers would also have to agree to undertake any remedial works necessary to reinstate the dune ecosystem after the event.

NSW Surf Life Saving would be asked for a security bond to cover any damage caused to sand dune vegetation to enable remedial work.

The council also resolved that a plan of management for the carnival must be tabled at a council meeting for its information.

In August, the council resolved to support NSW Surf Life Saving (NSWSLS) with infrastructure, logistics, labour, planning and materials.

Council asked its community development section to identify community events that might enhance the carnival.

It was also required details of the carnival on be public exhibition.

Gosford Council is a major sponsor of the event.

Council agenda NM.35, December 14