Ermington’s Wharf Rd boat ramp to be upgraded

by NSW Ministry for Ports and Waterways on 28 Mar 2008 Ermington’s Wharf Rd boat ramp in western Sydney will be upgraded thanks to a $455,000 State Government grant, Ports and Waterways Minister Joe Tripodi said.

The grant will enable the Councils to widen the ramp, replace the existing pontoon, and improve traffic flow. Part of the grant will also go towards design work for further improvements.

NSW Maritime awarded the grant under the Better Boating Program following a joint application from the City of Ryde and Parramatta Councils.

'This grant is part of more than $1 million awarded to Sydney Harbour Councils for seven projects in this round of the Better Boating program,' Mr Tripodi said.

'NSW Maritime’s Better Boating program offers 100 per cent funding to improve boat ramp facilities at suitable sites within Sydney Harbour.

'Boat ramps are owned by local councils and maintenance has traditionally been their responsibility.

'This new funding package will ease the burden on local councils so they can make sure the existing ramps are in top condition. This is part of the State Government’s plan to continue to improve the facilities and services available to the people of NSW.'

Local MPs Tanya Gadiel and John Watkins welcomed the announcement.

'The Wharf Road boat ramp is the first access point to Sydney Harbour for trailer boats coming from the city’s north western suburbs,' Parramatta MP Tanya Gadiel said.

'It is well used by local fishing clubs, who warmly welcome news of this redevelopment.'

'The boat ramp is popular with boaters and surveys undertaken by the Ryde Council indicate an upgrade is highly supported,' Ryde MP John Watkins said.