More sand for Altona beach a shore thing

A 'before' shot of Flemings Pool. Photo: Supplied

Altona beach will get 32,000 tons of sand under a $1.5million foreshore renourishment plan announced last week.

Hobsons Bay council has appointed Hoare Bros to undertake sand renourishment works along a 940-metre stretch of beach between Sarros and Maidstone streets.

It is the first time since 2011 that the beach will receive more sand.

Councillor Sandra Wilson said the renourishment was necessary because the narrow stretch was susceptible to erosion, inundation and recession.

“We have seen significant amounts of sand lost and erosion and seawall damage,” she said.

“Indeed, when we have storm surge as well, the water has come up over the seawall and damaged properties.

“It’s an ongoing concern and it’s a multi-faceted approach to problems that we have around managing a very complex foreshore environment, one that is much valued.”

Last week’s council meeting heard sand was also expected to be added to Flemings Pool, a swimming spot at the end of Millers Road, within the next fortnight.

A joint letter tabled at the meeting stated that many residents were concerned about the state of the pool following drainage works and the placement of rocks to combat erosion.

There will be two community consultations in February to discuss the foreshore renourishment work.
Work will start in March and is expected to be completed by June 30.