CONTROVERSIAL: 4WD owners want full access to Stockton beach.
THE state government is yet to set a date for the release of a draft management plan for Stockton sand dunes.
In the pipeline since 2012, the draft plan of management for the Worimi Conservation Lands is in the final stages of preparation, a National Parks and Wildlife Service spokesman said.
The spokesman said the plan was expected to be on exhibition "in the early part of this year" for at least 90 days.
In response to the lengthy period taken to develop the draft plan, the spokesman cited community and stakeholder meetings and workshops as well as the development of a consultative group including tourism operations, local council, park neighbours, recreational users and other representatives.
"The aim of the plan of management for the Worimi Conservation Lands is to ensure the protection of the natural and cultural values of the Stockton Bight landscape, while providing access for the general public and promoting safe and sustainable recreational and commercial use," he said.
"Everyone with an interest in the management of the Worimi Conservation Lands at Stockton is encouraged to read it and provide a submission."
In the meantime, fencing has been installed at Stockton "to define the boundary of the Worimi Conservation Lands and private property as well as the formal access points".
"Sand fencing" is also being considered to assist the frontal dune recover from storm damage.
Stockton beach has been the site of recent controversy, with four-wheel-drive enthusiasts rallying about their restricted access to the area.
Many four-wheel-drive owners do not believe the dunes require restrictions.
But the National Parks and Wildlife Service has claimed all 28 kilometres of the beachfront and an additional 430 hectares in the high dunes were open to four-wheel-drive owners, with only the camping area being off-limits.