Bluff Point Coastal Adaptation Project Process

Step 1: Coastal Hazard Assessments (completed in 2016)

In 2015, the City of Greater Geraldton began investigating the impacts of coastal erosion and inundation along its coastline to meet the requirements of State Planning Policy No. 2.6 – State Coastal Planning Policy (SPP2.6).

Step 2: Coastal Hazard Risk Management & Adaptation Planning (CHRMAP – completed in 2018)

In 2018, the City's Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan (CHRMAP) identified the southern and northern sections of Kempton Street in Bluff Point as high-risk areas for erosion by 2030.

Step 3: Adaptation Options Assessment

The City secured grant funding from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH) to explore the long-term adaptation pathways for Bluff Point. Partnering with coastal engineering experts M P Rogers and Associates, community engagement specialists 361 Degrees and economics consultants Aither, the City is developing practical and sustainable coastal adaptation options.

NOW

Concept options have been prepared to align with the project objectives, and community engagement is currently underway to present these options and gather feedback. WE ARE HERE

NEXT

Evaluating and selecting the preferred adaptation option:

  • Multi-Criteria Analysis will shortlist two preferred options by evaluating them against four key criteria: technical feasibility, social impact, environmental impact and economic viability, using a structured scoring system.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis will select the final preferred option by comparing the costs and benefits of the two shortlisted options, focusing on achieving the best balance between cost-efficiency and long-term effectiveness.

THEN

Conduct a Benefit Distribution Analysis to identify who would benefit and to what extent from coastal adaptation and help inform future funding decisions. This is a requirement of SPP2.6 administered by the DPLH and will help apportion capital and recurrent costs of coastal adaptation based on the beneficiary pays principle.

Step 4: Council Adoption of Preferred Adaptation Option

A report will be presented to the Council for review and endorsement of the preferred adaptation option identified through this project.

FUTURE STEPS BEYOND THIS PROJECT

Step 5: Detailed Design and Approvals

This phase includes conducting coastal investigations and studies, finalising engineering designs, and securing the necessary permits and approvals to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Step 6: Implementation (if and when required)

The preferred adaptation option will only be implemented when necessary, such as when erosion or associated risks reach a critical level. The City will continue to monitor the coastline regularly to track changes and determine when action is required.