Sydney Cove study vision for the future

Sydney Cove study:  vision for the future                                
 
Ports and Waterways Minister Joe Tripodi today announced a study into the future use of Sydney Cove which will look at ways of improving public amenities and infrastructure around Circular Quay, Walsh Bay and the Man O’War steps.
 
“This is the first study of its kind into the entire Sydney Cove area and will set the direction for the optimum use of wharf and adjacent facilities for the next ten years,” Mr Tripodi said.
 
Sydney Cove is used by a wide range of vessels, including Sydney Ferries, international cruise ships, charter and tourist craft, water taxis and super yachts at Campbell’s Cove.  
 
Mr Tripodi said the $80,000 study will produce two separate plans.
 
“The first plan will look at usage, including proposed improvements to ticket booth arrangements for cruise operators such as Captain Cook and Blue Line at Circular Quay, and the upgrade of the western promenade.
 
“The second plan will address access and information issues, such as strategies to improve signage, display of general and maritime information, disabled access, customer service and the aesthetics of the area.
 
“This will ensure we get the best and safest use out of Sydney Cove, from wharves 2 and 3 at Walsh Bay right around to the Man O’War steps,” Mr Tripodi said.
 
The study has been welcomed by the Commercial Vessel Association of NSW which represents a number of charter boat operators.
 
“The Industry is fully supportive of this important step in providing good quality, secure, long term infrastructure for the Commercial Vessel Industry within Sydney’s premier tourism precinct,” Association President Anthony Howarth said.
 
“We are looking forward to assisting the process in what ever way we can.”

NSW Maritime has commissioned a consortium comprising Worley Parsons and LFA Architects to carry out the study, which is scheduled for completion by May.
 
Mr Tripodi said the public, Sydney Ferries, Sydney Ports Corporation, local businesses and other government agencies will all form part of the consultation process.