Palm Beach Shoreline – Feasibility Report Released (Australia)

The City of Gold Coast took a major step in responding to Palm Beach’s significant erosion and storm surge challenges by releasing the Palm Beach Shoreline Project Feasibility Report.

Engineering Services Committee chair, Councillor Daphne McDonald, said she was eager to see a solution that would provide adequate protection for the Palm Beach shoreline.

“The report has identified a management scheme that has the potential for the best value and the most sustainable outcome for the Palm Beach shoreline.

“Palm Beach is a popular destination loved by the local community and visitors and Council is committed to protecting the area for future generations.”

Environmental consultants BMT WBM identified 18 management options, which were shortlisted to arrive at the recommended scheme. The report was peer reviewed by a panel of coastal management experts.

The recommendation involves:

– the construction of seawalls;

– targeted placement of large-scale nourishment along Palm Beach, with sand sourced from an offshore dredge area;

– stabilisation of nourishment through construction of a new near-shore structure;

– continuation of the annual dredging program for Currumbin Creek.

This recommendation included consideration of $1.1 million to be included in the 2013-14 budget to complete design for the project, consideration of an increase in the budget for the construction of public seawalls to $1.2 million; and a note that implementation of the works in 2014-15 would cost $16.9 million.

Palm Beach was identified as a priority for investment under the Gold Coast Shoreline Management Plan (GCSMP) in 2010.

Works to deliver a management scheme are scheduled for commencement late 2014.

A community engagement program is currently underway to inform key stakeholders and the community on the intent, progress and expected outcomes of the project.

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Press Release, February 18, 2013