The exhibition period for the draft Water Sharing Plan for the Central Coast Unregulated and Alluvial Water Sources has been extended until 14 February 2021, the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment has announced.
Acting Director Coastal and Groundwater Planning, Tracey Brownbill said the exhibition was due to end on Sunday 31 January but will be extended by two weeks to ensure all interested stakeholders can review the draft.
"During this first exhibition phase, some stakeholders indicated they wanted more time to review the plan before making comment," she said.
"We have listened to the requests and extended the closing date for the public exhibition period to 14 February. This will allow people the time they need to have their say and make a submission.
"A number of public information sessions have already been held to outline the draft plan and answer questions from water users and community members."
Ms Brownbill said the aim of this water sharing plan is to protect the environment, manage water extraction and facilitate water trading.
The draft Central Coast water sharing plan covers the unregulated rivers and alluvium from north of the Hawkesbury River to north of the Tuggerah lakes and includes the Wyong River and its tributaries.
"Unregulated rivers play an important role in providing long-term security for local farming, industries, towns and the environment," Ms Brownbill said.
"Once finalised the water sharing plan will be in place for ten years, providing security for both water users and the environment in the Central Coast region."
Copies of the draft plan, together with supporting information and documents can be obtained from the department's website - dpie.nsw.gov.au/central-coast-wsp.
Submissions must be received by 14 February 2021.
