Woy Woy wharf to receive $4M upgrade

The Woy Woy wharf is to receive a $4 million upgrade- nine years after the need for the upgrade was identified.

Cr Chris Holstein said he was happy to see some action.

Cr Holstein said the first grant in 2010 identified the need for an upgrade and since 2014 council had been applying for grants to do the work.

On Thursday, the Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro and Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Scot MacDonald announced the money had been awarded.

The existing jetty would be replaced by a pontoon wharf accommodating 35-metre vessels up to 250 tonnes.

Mr MacDonald said funded works include improved disability access, a new dedicated fishing wharf, new sea wall, cantilever boardwalk, footpaths, landscaping, solar powered street lighting and removing power poles.

"The current jetty becomes submerged when a king tide comes in, causing disruption to commuter ferry services and interrupting other recreational activities," Mr MacDonald said.

"The new pontoon wharf will rise with the tide, reducing weather delays and providing certainty for commuters, as well as providing more space so recreational boaters can access the wharf during busy periods."

Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch was among those to claim success and acknowledged council's efforts.

Cr Holstein said the council would tip in $1.3m to the project.

Mr Barilaro said the upgraded facilities would provide safe and convenient access to the waterway precinct from the Woy Woy town centre and train station, increasing tourist visitation during peak periods and out of season, which in turn will create jobs.

Funding was secured through the NSW Government Regional Communities Development Fund.

SOURCES:

Media release, 7 Feb 2019

Scot MacDonald, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast

Media Release, 7 Feb 2019

Liesl Tesch Member for Gosford

Interview, 7 Feb 2019

Chris Holstein, Central Coast Council

Reporter: Merilyn Vale