ON Thursday 26 November 2020 Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance announced an extra $4 million will go to upgrading the Coffs Harbour boat ramp, dredging the boat ramp basin, extending the breakwater to improve access to the ramp, and installing new pontoons and parking.

“This fast-tracked upgrade of the Coffs Harbour boat ramp ties in with the broader foreshore master plan carried out by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment,” Mr Constance said.

“Not only are we supporting NSW tourism by making these important maritime upgrades, but we are also creating 425 jobs across our regional and rural communities, to help recover from the COVID-19 crisis.”

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said, “The first stage of work will involve extending the break wall by 75 metres, widening the ramp to six lanes and carrying out dredging to the basin.”

“This additional funding will allow for the second stage of the project to be brought forward, including upgrading the car and trailer parking, realignment of the access road and entrance, and upgrading features such as fish cleaning tables.”

The project has been in development since 2018, when a small group of concerned locals submitted a paper to Council detailing safety issues at the boat ramp.

President of the Coffs Harbour Regional Boat Ramp and Precinct committee John Lawler said, “We ended up with a list of ten enhancements that will improve safety and make this an investment that will serve the community well for a very long time and give the city a world class facility.”

The Coffs Harbour boat ramp upgrade ties in with the broader foreshore master plan carried out by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

The Review of Environmental Factors will be on display from 30 November to 20 December and can be accessed at the Harry Bailey Memorial Library or via https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/coffs-harbour-boat-ramp.index.html.

 

By David TUNE