FORESHORE RESTORATIONS TO INCREASE NATURAL RESILIENCE AT TOOLAKEA

Toolakea’s foreshore will receive a makeover starting this week as Council crews start works to reduce the impact of erosion and protect coastal vegetation. 

Homes close to The Esplanade will benefit from the restoration works as the sand added to the foreshore will reinforce the beach and provide some natural protection against storms and other inclement weather.

Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said beach restoration works were essential to preserve the natural amenity of the area.

“The foreshore at Toolakea faces a number of impacts, including weather, overland erosion, coastal erosion and people illegally driving on the beach, which is why Council has to undertake restoration works along the beach,” Cr Soars said. “These works involve using trucks and excavators to move sand from some sections of the beach to other areas that are at risk of further coastal erosion. Council has also planted coastal grasses, vines and shrubs along the foreshore this year to help provide protection against erosion into the future.”

Cr Soars said the works would include about two weeks of partial beach closure.

“For the safety of our crews and the general public Council will be partially closing the beach while the restoration works are underway,” Cr Soars said. “You’ll still be able to access the northern side of the beach via the beach pedestrian access path, so if you’re keen to enjoy the beach this month head down to the area across from Toolakea Park. Thank you to residents for their patience while we get these essential works done to ensure the longevity of the foreshore.”

The Toolakea foreshore restorations works start this week and are expected to run for two weeks, weather and tidal conditions permitting.

For more information about Council’s coastal management work, visit Council’s website.