Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock today announced that Stockton Beach has been declared a Significant Open Coast Location.
"Following an inspection of the site and with public and private assets at risk, I have urgently requested Stockton Beach be declared a Significant Open Coast Location," Mrs Hancock said.
"There is no doubt the current situation at Stockton requires urgent attention. This declaration has now put Stockton Beach firmly on the NSW Government's agenda.
"Helping councils manage coastal hazards is a priority for the NSW Government and the $83.6 million Coastal and Estuary Grants Program provides funding to councils to address their coastal issues in consultation with their communities.
"The declaration means the City of Newcastle Council can apply for funding to implement actions in their Coastal Zone Management Plan at any time, especially in circumstances where implementing actions cannot wait until the next funding round. Funding applications will also be rapidly assessed so that solutions can be implemented as a priority."
There are currently 15 significant open coastal locations listed across New South Wales.
"Including Stockton on the list demonstrates the Government's ongoing commitment to the Stockton community, having already provided the Newcastle Council with $147,500 towards developing a coastal management program to identify a longer-term action plan.
Council has submitted a number of funding applications for urgent works at the site which are currently undergoing a rapid assessment so that works can be undertaken as a matter of priority.
"The Government continues to encourage Council to investigate all potential long term solutions for improving the degraded beach and to work with the Government to obtain funding and implement solutions."
Since 2011, the NSW Government has provided Council with over $1.2 million to address coastal issues across the Newcastle region.
