The concept and resource consent planning for an expanded Sugarloaf Wharf Harbour and has been approved by the Thames Coromandel District Council recently.

Concepts for the Fureys Creek dredged channel and landing facilities, plus the Coromandel Wharf Dredged are also currently being fleshed out by council.

The Thames Coromandel District Council has released an update on its Coromandel Harbour Project recently. Photo: File

The three works make up TCDC's Coromandel Harbour project which addresses needs ahead of higher visitor numbers and facilities increased use by both recreational and commercial users.

Development of the harbour's infrastructure could also allow for a fast ferry from Auckland, meaning huge economic benefits for Coromandel Town and the whole district.

The TCDC says an expanded Sugarloaf Wharf would not only address health and safety concerns but also cater to aquaculture growth in the short to medium term.

'The expansion will be funded by the aquaculture industry and we are currently working out the detail of funding arrangements with the Coromandel Marine Farmers Association.

'We will only contribute ratepayer money to development components that are of benefit to our ratepayers.”

Details around the concept are still under development, but may include a reclamation with three concrete deck and pile jetties.

The wharf will remain a dual consented facility for industry and recreational users and work is likely to start in 2015. Consent applications are expected to be lodged in the second half of 2015.

Community feedback and stakeholder working group input is also being used to refine concepts for the Fureys Creek dredged channel and landing facilities, plus Coromandel Wharf Dredged Basin.

'Fureys Creek is still intended to be the short to medium term solution until the Dredged Basin can be constructed.

'Both these stages are being refined but costs are high and beyond the means of the ratepayer alone meaning that external investment will be essential to achieve this concept.”

A business case is being developed to seek investment interest from both public and private sectors.

The TCDC will now complete the business case and obtain feedback from both the Stakeholder Working Group and Economic Development Committee.

A presentation will be given to council in March 2015.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE THAMES COROMANDEL DISTRICT COUNCIL:

• Concerns regarding congestion, health and safety and road safety issues at the Sugarloaf Wharf.
• Specific harbour user needs.
• Public space impact – using too much space at Patukirikiri Reserve.
• Preserving Coromandel's unique character.
• Ecological impact and sediment contamination for any proposed dredging.
• Affordability / cost for the final option for improving facilities within Coromandel Harbour.

For more information about TCDC's Coromandel Harbour Project click here.