Posted on July 23, 2025
A groundbreaking project, which will address coastal erosion at Stockton Beach, is moving a step closer to fruition.
It follows the NSW Government agreeing to actions in the City of Newcastle’s (CN) Extended Stockton Coastal Management Program (CMP).
A move that’s been applauded by the Stockton Beach Special Advisory Panel.
“A framework will be created to deliver ongoing sand top-ups as part of a strategy designed to buffer the coastline from erosion,” chair and Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said.
“So, I welcome the agreement between council and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) to allocate these outstanding actions, which guide the long-term management of Newcastle’s iconic coastline.
“It’ll now be put in front of CN for its adoption before being submitted to Minister Penny Sharpe for certification.
“Getting sand back on the beach has always been my focus.
“And, I’m committed to keeping the community updated on this project and ensuring my $21.5 million election vow is used efficiently and effectively to deliver the best outcomes for the beach and for the Stockton community.”
The NSW Government will also develop and implement an innovative coastal monitoring system to oversee long-term beach management.
It builds on $21.5 million in the 2025-26 NSW Budget to deliver mass sand nourishment, which was identified in the original 2020 Stockton CMP.
The DCCEEW, with the assistance of NSW Public Works, has completed offshore investigation works for the $6.3 million Coastal and Estuarine Risk Mitigation and Stockton Beach Repair projects, too.
This will support the rehabilitation of the shoreline.
Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge was also pleased with the outcome.
“The Extended Stockton CMP establishes a pathway for the delivery, funding and maintenance of mass sand nourishment, while planning and delivering urgent protection works for critical public assets in the short-term,” he said.
“I thank Mr Crakanthorp for his many years advocating for the needs of Stockton.
“As well, I look forward to ongoing collaboration that works towards resolving this community’s coastal erosion issues.”
Work is underway on the environmental impact assessment to secure the necessary licences required to deliver the mass sand nourishment.
