Soldiers Beach stairs in front of the Surf Life Saving Club has recently undergone works to enhance access with a new and improved stair extension - and the stairs are now open for use!
This is the first of four projects to be completed following $2.44million in funding received from the Australian and NSW Governments as part of the 2021 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Program to improve access for Soldiers Beach and Jenny Dixon Beach.
Council Director of Environment and Planning, Alice Howe said that Council is pleased to have one of the four projects completed and looks forward to the progression of the remaining three.
“While the stairs were still safe for the public to use, the funding from the Australian and NSW Governments has allowed us to enhance the integrity and improve beach access with the stair extension,” said Dr Howe.
“The stair extension means the community can access the beach after coastal erosion events that decrease the amount of sand at the base of the stairs.
“The improved access also exhibits a new landing which extends to the left and the right to directly lead the public towards the varying location of beach safety flags in the summer season.
“I am pleased to advise that the remaining three projects are also progressing well and are estimated to be completed by 2025.”
The remaining works include:
- Replacement of the northern stairs at Soldiers Beach
- Replacement of the concrete vehicle access ramp at Soldiers Beach
- Repair of the Jenny Dixon Beach stairs
Minister for Central Coast David Harris welcomed completion of the projects that support the social recovery of communities impacted by the 2021 floods.
“The purpose of this state and federal co-funded program was to ensure that infrastructure damaged in the floods would be repaired and restored for the enjoyment of the community and am pleased to see this has happened at Soldiers Beach.’ Mr Harris said.
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to working with all levels of government and communities to deliver the support our regions need to keep moving forward with recovery.”
Council Administrator, Rik Hart said the Central Coast is known for its natural beauty and maintaining access to our natural assets is a critical component of what we value as a community.
“Our local beaches are loved by visitors and residents alike and are a great way to experience our beautiful region. These projects are just four examples of how we are committed to increasing ease of access to our natural waterways”.
While these stair extension works are now complete, Jenny Dixon Beach access remains closed until further notice. Council barricades and warning signs remain erected at Jenny Dixon Beach for community safety.
ADVICE
- Please stay away from the impacted area
- Please keep personal safety front-of-mind and remain behind any barriers that Council crews have put in place
- Stay up-to-date by checking Council’s website centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or Council’s Facebook page facebook.com/CentralCoastCouncil for updates
The 2021 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Program is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
ENDS