Efforts to better protect Stockton Beach as it continues to suffer from serious erosion issues have reached another milestone, bringing it a step closer to mass sand nourishment.
A vital document, the review of environmental factors, has been finalised.
Newcastle State MP Tim Crakanthorp described it as a "huge development" marking the completion of all environmental assessments.
University of Newcastle's Professor Ron Boyd, a member of the Stockton Special Advisory Panel, agreed.
He said the document's thousand-plus pages contain enough detailed information for the project to move forward with adequate environmental safeguards in place, and without having to also come up with a separate environmental impact study.
"We are a lot closer now than we were before," Professor Boyd said.
There was also a long way to go, he said, with issues such as the outstanding sand mining license, plus a tender process to complete before mass sand nourishment can begin.
"It may be weeks to months away but by the end of this year if possible, from the community's perspective," Professor Boyd said.
That would mean the project was delivered as promised at the last election, he said, with just nine months left before the next one.
The environmental review document is based on technical, environmental, and heritage investigations which consider the impacts to the seabed, marine ecology, coastal processes, and underwater cultural heritage, along with maritime traffic, local roads, and the local community, Mr Crakanthorp said.
It includes a range of mitigation measures to address any potential impacts.
"This is a massive step closer to getting sand back on the beach," Mr Crakanthorp said.
"This project is a first for NSW and will form a way forward for coastal communities across NSW. It is a collaborative project with all levels of government working to protect Stockton beach."
"Getting sand back on the beach has always been my focus and I am committed to keeping the community updated on this project and ensuring my $21.5 million election commitment is used efficiently and effectively to deliver the best outcomes for the beach and for the Stockton community."
The Stockton Special Advisory Panel, which meets up to three times a year, will hold its next meeting in July.
Meanwhile the City of Newcastle is continuing to work on Stockton beach as part of its coastal management plan which involves a $5 million upgrade of the Mitchell Street sea wall.
The 600-metre long structure is being bolstered with 8500 tonnes of rock to reduce the risk of inundation during extreme weather.
