A row of houses at Patonga has been protected from the danger of falling rocks thanks to a State Government investment of about $1M to stabilise a steep slope and secure large rocks.
A three-year Crown Lands project has now been completed to ensure the safety of the 50 homes.
Crown Lands managed the project on a Crown reserve after torrential rain in February 2020 dislodged large rocks which fell down a steep slope and into the rear of two properties, damaging water tanks the back of a house and a shed.
The restoration project involved geotechnical studies to assess slope stability, removal of dangerous trees, securing parts of a cliff and boulders with steel rock bolts, breaking up unstable boulders, covering rocks on steep slopes with mesh netting and installing 170m of rock-catch fencing to stop any falling rocks.
Crown Lands will monitor the site periodically for any changes to conditions.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said materials for the complex project had to be brought in by boat.
“A helicopter was used to remove dangerous trees … and workers had to use abseiling gear in difficult to access areas with dense bush,” she said.
“This major investment to secure an unstable escarpment means the affected residents at Patonga can resume using all parts of their properties knowing they are safe from tumbling rocks.”
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the project was impressive given the site on the western foreshore of Patonga Creek was only accessible by water or air.
“The very steep terrain made it difficult to access with equipment,” he said.
“Public safety was the priority as well as securing the future of these homes so it’s great to see the successful completion of this difficult project.”
Source:
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch