Community consultation opens for planning Darwin’s future ferry infrastructure and services

The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics is investigating opportunities for future ferry services in and around Darwin Harbour to cater for future growth over the next years.

The Northern Territory Government’s 10 year Infrastructure Plan identifies ferries as a possible future mode of transport, subject to demand.

A number of potential ferry sites are being assessed as part of this study to determine suitability for future ferry services and potential infrastructure requirements. Locations being considered are outlined on an interactive map at www.ferryplanning.nt.gov.au which will be launched on 1 November 2017.

Maritime infrastructure specialists, Mott MacDonald will lead the planning study to identify priority sites. Local communication company True North Strategic Communication will lead community consultation with a range of stakeholders on the potential sites for future ferry service infrastructure.

Further to community feedback, the long-term planning study will consider how potential ferry site locations and services integrate with other transport modes such as bus routes, cycle and pedestrian paths and existing and future road networks. Environmental conditions and sensitivities and infrastructure requirements for future long-term ferry facilities such as pontoons, jetties, dredging, ferry terminal and parking will also be considered.

There are a number of ways you can be involved. I would encourage you to visit our website to find out more information about how to make a submission or learn more about this project. Community consultation on this project will close on 13 December 2017.

If you would like to provide direct feedback to the project consultants, or register your interest for a workshop, please contact Penny Baxter on 8981 6445 or email [email protected].