Largest overhaul of Gold Coast waterways in 30 years

Gold Coast residents will get improved access to local waterways with the finalisation of the 10-year Waterways Management Strategy.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the final strategy is largest overhaul of Gold Coast waterways in 30 years.

“Following several months of community consultation, the strategy has been finalised and ensures Gold Coast residents and visitors have the best access and facilities possible when using the region’s famous waterways,” Mr Emerson said.

“As part of our promise to revitalise front line services, we committed $30 million across four years to improve the management and access of the Gold Coast waterways.

“The community feedback involved strong emphasis on improving infrastructure such as boat ramps and pontoons and continued protection of the environment on and beside the waterways.

“Works will commence in the second half of the year on dredging programs at a number of key locations including the Labrador channel and a new boat ramp and pontoon at Southport Broadwater parklands.”

Member for Broadwater Verity Barton said with more than 160 kilometres of channels and about 40 per cent of the state’s recreational vessels, the waterways were at the heart of the Gold Coast lifestyle.

“This strategy is about better access to the waterways through dredging projects, new infrastructure and improvements to navigational aids,” Ms Barton said.

“The strategy will kick start a comprehensive review of speed limits across the city, including hot spots such as high speed areas on the Nerang River and the Broadwater.

“It will also improve and speed up the way environmental approvals are obtained.

“We have listened to the locals and returned the management of the waterways back to the community as promised at the election.”

The strategy is being delivered by the Gold Coast Waterways Authority.

Visit www.gcwa.qld.gov.au to view the three year rolling program of works detailing the projects and initiatives of the Authority.

[ENDS] 5 March 2014

Media contact:          

Minister Emerson:       Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625

Miss Barton:                Barbara Cowan-Grant 5563 9010