The State Government-built boat ramp facilities (which sit on dry land) will be handed over to City of Coffs Harbour to run and maintain, but before that happens the State needs to provide the necessary handover documentation confirming the facility is environmentally compliant and up to standard.
The facility is predicted to deliver social and economic benefit for the City, but in its present state it may not be fit for purpose.
At its meeting on 22 February, City of Coffs Harbour backed a plan for the General Manager to negotiate a string of outstanding matters before the land-side component of the Coffs Harbour Regional Boat Ramp is formally handed over by Transport for NSW to the City.
Several issues with the facilities were identified by City officials, many centering on the boat wash bays which were not were not addressed in the scope and construction works.
Specifically, the City is concerned the eight boat wash bays:
Lack evidence of environmental compliance as the wash facility drains into the harbour
Hose connection points are not fit for purpose; and
There are no flow or pressure limiting devices to prevent misuse and wastage of potable water.
“This will be a magnificent addition to the facilities of the City, but it’s important everything is where it needs to be before we formally commit to the responsibility on behalf of our community,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Cr Paul Amos said.
“We are now looking at commissioning the boat wash bays after the formal handover – once the outstanding issues with the facility have been addressed,” City of Coffs Harbour City Infrastructure Director Andrew Beswick said.
The City has determined to monitor the ongoing use and costs of the regional boat ramp, estimated to be at least $200,000 per annum (including depreciation).
Council has also determined there is no current intention to levy water charges for boat rinse usage once the new bays are opened.
