Queensland's Meridien Marinas to redevelop Sydney's Berrys Bay

by Neil Patchett on 26 Aug 2009 NSW Maritime Chief Executive Steve Dunn today announced Meridien Marinas Pty Ltd as the preferred proponent to redevelop the western area of Berrys Bay into a revitalised a maritime precinct.

NSW Maritime and the State Property Authority own a four hectare land and water area at the western shore of Berrys Bay on Sydney’s Waverton Peninsula.

'The area to be redeveloped comprises the vacant former BP land site and dolphin wharf, and the existing site leased by Woodleys,' Mr Dunn said.

'Following an exhaustive analysis of proposals from an open tender process, I am pleased to announce that Meridien Marinas has been short-listed for negotiations to enter into a Development Agreement for both sites. The aim is to revitalise this important maritime precinct.

'The project will upgrade boating facilities, as well as provide for offices and ancillary businesses. There is also the requirement for the redevelopment to have public foreshore access, as well as parking for the precinct and surrounding maritime areas.'

Meridien Marinas’ proposed $40 million capital investment at the sites includes:

• Capacity to berth 92 vessels ranging from 12m to 30m in length;

• Vessel sewage pumpout and refuelling facilities;

• Berths for visiting and pick-up / drop-off vessels;

• A 60 vessel dry stack storage facility;

• A 1150 square metre covered vessel maintenance facility;

• Maritime workshops, offices and ancillary businesses including a café;

• Launch area for small craft such as canoes and kayaks, with storage space;

• Parking for 140 cars; and

• Foreshore access and retention of the heritage convict-era bund wall and original seawall.

The Queensland based company has extensive experience in constructing and/or managing similar developments on the Gold Coast, Airlie Beach and Port Douglas.

'The development will provide badly needed vessel storage on the northern side of Sydney Harbour and will modernise and revitalise maritime service facilities in the area, as well as providing public access along the site,' Mr Dunn said.

'This Berrys Bay maritime precinct is part of a network of such locations around Sydney Harbour being established to support the recreational boating industry, which turns over more than $2 billion a year in NSW and employs 14,000 people.'

It is anticipated that the development will be staged and fully operational by 2012.