New plan to tackle coastal vulnerability

Written on the 4 July 2016

The Shire of Broome is planning for the potential impacts of flooding and erosion on the town site as far into the future as 2110 with a new report received by Council.

The Broome Town Site Coastal Vulnerability Study examines potential future threats from coastal inundation, erosion, stormwater flooding and climate change, with research conducted between 2013 and 2015.

The Shire of Broome engaged expert consultants who undertook research including a storm tide and coastal inundation assessment, hydraulic assessment, hydro-geological assessment, and a shoreline stability assessment.

Community members wishing to find out more are invited to attend an information forum on Wednesday 20 July, with a coastal engineer on hand to expl ain the details of the studyreport and answer questions.

Shire of Broome Director Development Services, Aletta Nugent, said the next stage was to develop a Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan (CHRMAP).

"The aim of the CHRMAP is to translate the study's technical information, as well as local knowledge and strategic planning, into a document that is practical and accessible and can be used to manage the risks of coastal hazards into the future," Ms Nugent said.

"The CHRMAP will analyse the risks identified in the study as well as the economic and social value of the coast, and will develop actions that the Shire and others will undertake to manage or adapt to the risks."

Funding for the Coastal Vulnerability Study and CHRMAP was provided by the WA Department of Planning.

Two community forums will be held on Wednesday 20 July, with the first running from 1pm to 3pm in the Broome Civic Centre, and the second from 6pm to 8pm in the Shire of Broome Function Room.

Please RSVP by 18 July to 9191 3456 or bronwyn.jones@broome.wa.gov.au.