Apply for dredging funds, says chamber

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has strongly urged Gosford Council to apply for funding being made available to councils for dredging projects in NSW by Minister for Lands Mr Tony Kelly.

Chamber president Mr Matthew Wales said council should be seriously considering applying for funds for the Brisbane Water entrance channel to ensure the future safety of the area.

"The chamber has welcomed the Minister for Lands announcement that a further half a million dollars would be made available to local councils for dredging projects including the Brisbane Water channel entrance," Mr Matthews said.

"The Peninsula Chamber is strongly urging Gosford Council to immediately apply for a share of the extra funding so as to ensure that further dredging works are undertaken at the Brisbane Water channel entrance.

"This is a timely announcement by the NSW State Government and re-affirms their commitment to the 50-50 cost sharing arrangement with councils.

"Regular maintenance of the channel needs to be undertaken together with the allocation of recurrent funds in council's budget so as to ensure that when work needs to be done, the money is available to match the State Governments funding commitments.

"Without doubt, everyone knows how important it is to maintain the channel entrance and ensure the safety of commercial and pleasure craft users.

"Our waterways are a key part of the tourism industry which has been clearly demonstrated in the community feedback to the Central Coast Tourism Destination Management Plan.

"The Peninsula Chamber looks forward to council's early application to the NSW Government for a share of the additional funds."

The $500,000 funding allocation is part of the Waterways funding program with councils having the opportunity to apply for a share of the grant based on a 50-50 basis.

Brisbane Water entrance channel was one of seven projects in the state to receive funding assistance as part of the first $1 million package announced in 2008.

Press release, 3 Aug 2010 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Press release, 2 Aug 2010 Tony Kelly, Minister for Lands