Works on the $2.4 million project to refurbish the Sandon Point Surf Life Saving Club were stopped in July following the discovery of an Aboriginal midden.

Following consultation with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH), Council has now received approval to stabilise and remediate the midden in accordance with OEH requirements. This has caused a delay of the refurbishment of the Surf Life Saving Club.

Council will suspend further work on the SLSC site until we receive an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit is received from the OEH.

Council’s Manager Infrastructure John Shepherd said the process to gain the necessary permits to continue work on the surf club renovation has begun.

“Current contract works have been suspended on the site,” Mr Shepherd said. “We are awaiting a permit to continue with the construction work on the surf life saving club and amenities. In the mean time we have begun planning to place temporary facilities for the surf life saving club and public amenities in the area for the coming surf life saving season.”

Construction sheds will be removed from the site. The site fence will remain to prevent public access to the construction area.

Council will consult with the local community on the temporary public amenities and surf club facilities once the stabilisation of the midden is complete.