Dredging needed now to keep ferry, says Chamber

Ettalong could lose its ferry service and other businesses could suffer unless action is taken immediately to dredge the Ettalong channel, according to the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce.

"Our concern is that dredging could be up to 12 months away," said Chamber president Mr Matthew Wales.

"This is of little help to Palm Beach Ferries and local businesses who will be impacted if the link to the Northern Beaches gets swallowed up by sand.

"The Chamber is calling on the NSW State Government and the Council to hold a meeting with key stakeholders so that all who are impacted by the dredging issue can discuss the options in an open forum.

"At the moment, there is so much conflicting information that it is hard to see a clear way forward.

"No one can afford for the Ettalong Channel to get any worse.

"That includes Palm Beach Ferries, recreational boat users, commercial fishermen and the business community", said Mr Wales.

"The Chamber understands that Council are formulating a dredging budget and have completed a series of studies, but the business community needs to understand the available budget allocations and timing for any future dredging.

However, Mr Wales said the lack of action from the NSW Government and Central Coast Council had the potential to threaten local businesses.

"With Palm Beach Ferries threatening to shut down services due to grounding of vessels, you have to wonder why it is taking so long for Council and the Government to sit round the table and sort out a long-term plan."

SOURCE:

Media release, 1 May 2017

Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce