Remediation of Empire Bay marina site

The former Empire Bay Marina structures will be removed to allow for a full and safe remediation of contamination on the site.

The decision follows consideration of factors including:

• A detailed site investigation that found elevated concentrations of contaminants on site including anti-fouling agents (tributyltin), heavy metals (lead, zinc and copper) and hydrocarbons (fuel and oil), from the marina’s former operations.
• The NSW Environment Protection Authority declared the former marina site significantly contaminated and requiring remediation.
• SafeWork NSW issued a notice that the underground fuel tanks and associated equipment including all fuel lines and vents must be removed.
• Building condition and structural engineer’s reports found the boatshed has major structural defects, is structurally unsound and unsafe, and is likely to collapse during the work that is required to properly remediate the site. The jetties are also dilapidated and unsafe.

“The marina structures will therefore need to be removed to allow for appropriate and safe remediation of site contamination,” Crown Lands Executive Director of Land and Asset Management Greg Sullivan said.

Crown Lands is currently addressing planning requirements for the removal of the boatshed, underground fuel tanks, jetties, slipway, and a concrete hardstand area to allow for a full remediation of the site.

Further contamination testing will then be undertaken, including a Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment, to determine full remediation requirements.

A Remedial Action Plan (RAP) will be developed to detail how the site will be remediated including work activities, environmental management, and work, health and safety information. This will support the lodgement of a development application with Central Coast Council.

Crown Lands is committed to working with stakeholders to ensure this project is progressed as quickly as possible.

Alternative marina facilities are available in Brisbane Water at nearby locations including Koolewong, Booker Bay and Killcare. The Empire Bay Public Wharf is also about 100m from the site with public road access.

Further information will be made available on the Crown Lands website at crownland.nsw.gov.au/whats-happening/notifications/empire-bay-marina