Published on Thursday, 2 January 2020 at 10:38:50 AM
Council have endorsed CEO David Pentz to investigate funding opportunities from industry, state and federal governments to facilitate the implementation of stage one of the Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan (CHRMAP).
The CHRMAP was adopted by Council in May 2019, serving as the Town’s key framework for mitigating the future risks of coastal erosion and inundation.
The CHRMAP identifies locations in the Port Hedland LGA susceptible to intolerable risk, impacting assets of significant commercial, cultural and environmental value.
Stage one CHRMAP implementation focuses on addressing coastal erosion hazards for Port Hedland’s Richardson Street, Sutherland Street and Goode Street.
State planning policy requires local governments to prepare for the impacts of coastal erosion and inundation over a 100 year planning horizon.
Hon. Commissioner Fred Riebeling said that now is the time for all levels of government and industry to work collaboratively to mitigate the risks of climate change.
“There is now broad consensus that coastal erosion and inundation is exacerbated by climate change, with coastal communities across the state required to mitigate future risks.
“The CEO will now investigate external funding opportunities to translate CHRMAP’s recommendations into tangible protection measures for our coastal community.
“Our first areas of focus will be Port Hedland’s Richardson Street, Sutherland Street and Goode Street.
“Port Hedland’s coastal geography sustains the world’s biggest bulk exporting port, with large scale land-side industrial structures adjacent to recreational facilities and residential properties.
“We have a collective responsibility to assess the feasibility of risk management options, including sand replenishment, dune stabilisation and rock armour sea wall construction.
“Residents’ safety is the Town’s highest priority, with the Town’s Executive leadership and I recognising Port Hedland’s unique exposure to cyclones, tidal surges and erosion compounding the urgency for action.
“I look forward to working constructively with my state and federal counterparts, as well as industry and the community, to ensure the CHRMAP is implemented and we protect our coastal community for future generations.”
Please click here to access the CHRMAP. For more information, please contact 08 9158 9300.
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