THE popular Little Beach boat ramp will close from Tuesday 13 July for a $2 million upgrade that will make launching boats from the ramp easier.

The project has been made possible through a $1.67 million grant from the NSW Government’s Boating Now program and additional funding from Council.

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Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says the long wait for a better boat ramp is almost over.

“Little Beach boat ramp is one of the most popular ramps in the state, and this upgrade can’t come soon enough for many in our community.

“Port Stephens is known for its incredible waterways and we want to make sure our community, anglers and visitors have safe and accessible maritime infrastructure.

“The woes of getting bogged at Little Beach boat ramp are well documented — so while the ramp will be closed for several months, the new design is going to be worth the wait,” he said.

Council’s Community and Recreation Coordinator Brock Lamont says the new boat ramp will make life easier for users.

“The new ramp is designed to ensure a better boating experience for users. We’ll be making it higher and longer than the existing ramp, with a gradual slope to make reversing and off-loading safer.

“The ramp is also designed to prevent sand inundation — it will also be built on piles or piers to allow for natural sand movement under the ramp instead of it accumulating on top.

“The works will be undertaken by a specialised contractor and are scheduled to be complete in September if the weather is kind to us, just in time for the warmer months.

“Luckily, there are plenty of other boat ramps in Port Stephens and we encourage people to use Shoal Bay, Soldiers Point and Lemon Tree Passage during this time,” he said.

During the works, Council will also build new pathways to improve accessibility at the site.

Construction of a new accessible amenities building has been delayed for redesign following community feedback in March.

This project is expected to be ready for construction in 2022.

Little Beach boat ramp will be closed from Tuesday 13 July and is scheduled to reopen at the end of September 2021.

During this time, boat ramp users are encouraged to use Shoal Bay, Soldiers Point and Lemon Tree Passage ramps.

To stay up to date on the project, visit portstephens.nsw.gov.au/littlebeach.