Due to seasonal and circulating currents, the sand has been moved from the southern end to the middle of the beach. This erosion has uncovered sections of the old concrete staircase, buried and littered along the southern end of the beach. Whilst an eyesore, this presents dangers to surfers and swimmers in shallow waters.  The huge amounts of erosion of late has uncovered the really old (Advised 1920-40's) timber retaining wall and it's terracotta footing commencing at the base of the stairs and running south for approx 150m. This is very hazardous to all who utilise the space, very serious safety concern. The large splintered, fossilized hardwood and broken sharp sections of terracotta all protruding vertically, typically just under the sandy surface and not seen, is a very serious safety concern.

Combined with the safety concern, we have the economic impact. With large media attention of high sewage concentration, asbestos found in the sand & eroding retaining walls & COVID. Tourism here can't afford a further blow, this is detrimental to the economics of the community that in recent years has seen many shops closed and fold.

We ask Central Coast Council address the safety concern immediately, being reasonable further request a longer term (Max 2yrs) rectification project.
See proposal below:

Request:

• Council meet, discuss and understand the Communities concern/s in conjunction with the proposed solution's below, both short & long term.
• Council presents a reasonable and measure proposal for both parties to discuss and mutually agree.
• Indicative program for both short & long term solutions agreed and delivered.
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Proposed Short Term Solution:

1. The top of the timber retaining wall exposed.
2. The sharp splintered top of the timber cut off, removing the safety hazard to the public.
3. Any exposed sharp footing and associated materials reported be made safe.

Proposed Long Term Solution:

1. Allocation of resources to address all the existing retaining wall & concrete staircase buried at southern end of beach (Permits required (EPA/ Heritage etc) Consultants, excavators, trucks, associated equipment & labour, required to clean up beach properly).
2. Scan southern end of beach to locate and identify all buried existing elements.
3. All timber retaining wall, footing & associated removed from beach.
4. All concrete staircase sections removed from beach.
5. Southern end of boardwalk erosion and footing exposure be assessed and treated. Potential burying of basalt below base of footing.
6. Alternatively - Concrete staircase sections, broken into smaller portions and used below boardwalk footing to assist with erosion.
7. Southern end of boardwalk fall height be assessed and appropriate restraint installed (S/S Handrails).
8. Promotion campaign to restore tourism perception.