Central Coast Council has successfully prosecuted a landowner in the Mangrove Mountain area for unlawfully clearing vegetation without approval.

The unlawful clearing related to the removal of approximately three hectares of native vegetation, equating to about 240 Olympic sized swimming pools. The vegetation removed included Red Gums, Turpentines, Forest Oak and Tea Trees which were likely habit for native wildlife. Ground cover was also removed, and most tree stumps had been destroyed by heavy machinery.

The magistrate convicted the landowner of the illegal act, issuing a penalty of $55,000 and awarding over $5,000 to Council in court related costs. 

Council is pleased with the outcome given the nature and scale of the clearing, and is now also considering further action to have the vegetation reinstated and rehabilitated to ensure people do not profit from illegal action.   This decision by the Local Court should send a warning to other landowners who disregard the law around illegal land clearing,” Mr Loader said.

Council will continue to prioritise action to address unlawful activity across the local government area and position itself as a firm but fair regulator in accordance with our Regulatory Policy, particularly where there is serious harm to the environment.