DREDGING EQUIPMENT SOON TO ARRIVE AT PORT OF EDEN

Dredging equipment is soon to arrive in Eden for works on the $44 million Breakwater Wharf Extension project.

The dredge due to leave Melbourne on Friday, 1 September bound for Eden Port, is expected to arrive early next week, weather permitting.

Member for Bega Andrew Constance said dredging work to remove material from Snug Cove and surrounds for the new berth pocket would commence soon and is expected to be completed by February 2018.

“This project will transform the Port of Eden and give our community the opportunity to benefit from the booming cruise industry,” Mr Constance said.

“The dredge, known as Machiavelli, will move up to 231,500 cubic metres of sand and rock out of Snug Cove to create a minimum clear depth of 10.5 metres for larger cruise ships.

“To limit the impact on the environment and the community, the dredging equipment will be operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week to complete the dredging works in the shortest possible time.”

The contractor will also be installing a scour protection mattress to protect the sea bed from potential erosion that could be caused by the propulsion systems of larger cruise ships.

The NSW Government has also announced that a contract for the development of a concept master plan for the Eden Foreshore Precinct has been awarded.

Mr Constance said the master plan will provide strategic advice on the long-term development of the precinct, a key tourist destination on the Sapphire Coast.

“With work beginning on the Breakwater Wharf Extension and additional infrastructure development happening in the area, it’s important we continue to build on the potential of these projects for the region,” Mr Constance said.

“The Foreshore Precinct Project has the potential to contribute to the growth of Eden by exploring further opportunities for commercial development and boost job opportunities for the region.”

The contract has been awarded to Cox Architecture which will work closely with the community and other stakeholders to develop the concept master plan.