Work will start this month on Transport for NSW’s major upgrade of the Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp precinct to increase the size of the ramp, provide more facilities, and better parking.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the project is a key beneficiary of the NSW Nationals in the state government’s $205 million maritime stimulus to kickstart the economy and create local jobs.
“The $14 million project will be built in two stages and is due for completion towards the end of next year,” Mr Singh said.
“The first stage of work – between August this year and April next year – will involve extending the breakwall by 75 metres, widening the ramp by a third to provide six launching and retrieval lanes, and completion of dredging work to the basin and channel.
“The second stage of work, due to start in January next year, will involve upgrading the car park to provide additional car, boat and trailer parking, realignment of Jordan Esplanade, a new entrance at the western end of the car park and upgrading features such as fish-cleaning tables.
“Also to be installed will be new lights and signs, services, new outdoor furniture and seating, landscaping, an amenities block, and a shared bike and pedestrian pathway next to Jordan Esplanade.”
Mr Singh said at least two lanes of the boat ramp will remain open during most of the work, although short closures will be required for safety reasons.
He said work on the pontoons, boat ramp and dredging may temporarily restrict movements in the bay, so all boat users and visitors are being urged to take extra care in manoeuvring their vessels in and out of the harbour.
This work ties in with the broader foreshore masterplan carried out by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.
