The proposed 1.4-kilometer seawall at Wamberal Beach on the Central Coast has sparked a heated debate, with accusations of scare campaigns, bullying, and misinformation on both sides. After violent storms in 2016 and 2020 caused damage to homes and uncovered buried asbestos, three development applications for the seawall were lodged with Central Coast Council last year. The applications have received hundreds of community objections, with critics arguing that the seawall would exacerbate coastal erosion and threaten the public’s access to the beach.
Corinne Lamont, a Central Coast councillor who campaigned against the proposal, believes that the beach should not be sacrificed to protect a small number of homes that are empty most of the year. She also expressed concerns about the cost of seawall construction, which is expected to be shouldered by beachfront residents. Lamont stated that many residents have been emotional over the issue, with some in tears due to the potential impacts of the seawall on the community.
Members of the Wamberal Protection Association, a group supporting the seawall’s construction, have accused opponents of running scare campaigns and using misinformation to gain public support. The association claims that some opponents are misinformed activists who have been bullying and harassing WPA members and beachfront owners. They have also alleged that children of seawall supporters have been bullied at school over their parents’ stance on the issue.
The development applications for the seawall are currently before a regional planning panel, with the decision-making process ongoing. The debate over the seawall has divided the community, with passionate arguments on both sides. Critics of the seawall argue that it will do more harm than good, while supporters believe it is necessary to protect shoreline properties from further damage during storms.
The ongoing battle over the seawall at Wamberal Beach highlights the complex issues surrounding coastal erosion and development in vulnerable areas. The community’s concerns about the impact of the seawall on the environment, public access to the beach, and the cost of construction are key factors in the debate. Both supporters and opponents of the seawall are determined to make their voices heard and push for a decision that aligns with their beliefs and values.
As the debate continues, it is clear that there are deep-seated emotions and strong convictions on both sides of the issue. The accusations of scare campaigns, bullying, and misinformation have added fuel to the fire, making it difficult to find common ground and reach a resolution. Ultimately, the decision on whether to proceed with the construction of the seawall will have far-reaching consequences for the community and the environment, underscoring the need for careful consideration and dialogue among all stakeholders involved.
