City of Newcastle is continuing to remediate storm damage and improve accessibility at Bar Beach to ensure safe access for all beach users ahead of the busy summer season.
In support of accessibility, construction of a temporary beach access ramp has commenced and is expected to be ready for use by the end of October.
Additional improvements will also be delivered prior to Christmas including the replacement of temporary water-filled barriers with upgraded balustrade fencing, and enhanced beach access for surf club vehicles.
Following severe weather in 2022, emergency repair works were undertaken to enable the use of the club house and facilities and provide temporary vehicular access to the beach.
Rehabilitation works to the promenade area are currently in design, which will include the construction of a new disabled access ramp, new stairs, upgrades to seawalls and the installation of new handrails. The reinstatement of four beach access points between Bar Beach and Merewether Beach are also planned.
City of Newcastle is working with Cooks Hill Surf Life Saving Club to minimise disruption to beach users, with rehabilitation works scheduled to commence following the upcoming summer season, at the request of the Club.
Cooks Hill Surf Life Saving Club President Michael Clancy said the ongoing remediation and enhancements are welcomed by the local community.
“Cooks Hill Surf Club and the extended community that we serve are looking forward to the continued remediation works and improved beach access over the coming months, said Mr Clancy.
“The installation of the temporary ramp for the remainder of the season ensures access to the beach is available to all, irrespective of their mobility.
“We have a Club that prides itself in delivering programs that cater for all members of our community and this work will allow our much loved “Same Waves” program for physically and intellectually impaired youth to recommence this season.”
City of Newcastle is also working with coastal experts to develop a Coastal Management Program (CMP) for the stretch of beaches between Nobbys and Burwood Beach, which will consider the increasing exposure to coastal hazards and explore long-term management options for this highly valued and much utilised stretch of coastline.