Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh is calling for a permanent dredging solution for Coffs Harbour, saying sand removed from the harbour could potentially be used by private operators to help offset dredging costs.
Singh said ongoing sand build-up was affecting commercial and recreational users of the harbour, including vessels using the marina and regional boat ramp.
He called on the NSW Government to negotiate with commercial operators over a long-term dredging arrangement.
“I urge the NSW Government to begin negotiations with commercial operators to dredge the harbour, with a view to those operators then using the sand as they see fit,” Singh said.
“The private sector has expressed an interest in the sand, a commodity which is traditionally in short supply. It could be well used in the construction industry, for example.
“Instead of getting sand from beaches, doesn’t it make sense to take it from where we have too much?”
Singh said dredging had been too sporadic and called for a dredge to be permanently stationed at the harbour.
“We’ve seen the absurd situation of vessels becoming stranded on the sandbank at the marina entrance at low tide, throwing fishing operations and other activities into disarray,” he said.
“And then we have the dangerous conditions at the boat ramp where the narrowing channel is so shallow at low tide, you could almost walk on water. This is entirely unacceptable.
“I’ve called continually for the NSW Government to find a fix and to restore Coffs Harbour’s once-proud reputation as a safe harbour and a working port.
“Today, I’m renewing that plea as a matter of urgency.”
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