Permanent Dredge for Swansea Channel Moves Forward

The ongoing issue of silting in the Swansea Channel is one step closer to a permanent solution, thanks to a new proposal from Lake Macquarie City Council. The Council is set to bring forward plans for ongoing dredging, including a sand transfer system and the possibility of relocating dredged sand to Blacksmiths Beach.

This proposal is part of the Lake Macquarie Economic Development Package, a key commitment made by Labor during the 2022 Federal Election. The Albanese Labor Government has allocated $10 million to Lake Macquarie City Council for the purchase of a dredge, aiming to provide a long-term and cost-effective solution to the silting that has plagued the Channel for years.

The recent Council vote marks significant progress in delivering on this commitment. The Swansea Channel has long been a problem area for the community, with infrequent dredging offering only temporary relief. A permanent dredge is seen as essential to ensuring a lasting solution.

The introduction of a permanent dredge is expected to unlock a range of boating and water sporting activities on Lake Macquarie, which in turn will generate tourism and boost the local economy. The $10 million commitment from the Albanese Government is being provided under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program. The Council is working closely with Federal and State agencies to finalise the funding agreement as soon as possible.

Both the Hon. Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery and Minister for International Development and the Pacific, and Dan Repacholi, Member for Hunter, have welcomed the Council’s support for this permanent dredging solution, emphasising the importance of significant Commonwealth funding in addressing the ongoing issues in the Swansea Channel.

More Information can be found on the Transport for NSW website: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/swansea-channel-dredging