The Kiama Municipal Council has announced plans to replace the Kiama jetty that was damaged during a wild storm, asking the community for feedback with the proposed designs.
Residents have been invited to a community consultation at The Pavilion to discuss their views for the jetty repair, with Council relying on grants to complete the works.
Member for Kiama Gareth Ward said the Kiama community felt a degree of ownership and stated that it was important for people to have their say.
“Harbours, like homes, need maintenance and need improvements and what the Council has done is offer three options that it has put forward to the community,” Mr Ward said.
“Having assets that allow for easier access and safer access to boats is really important, I believe that’s one of the reasons why Council is really pursuing this so they can pursue grant opportunities so that it can be safer for all.”
Kiama Council is encouraging feedback on the concept designs and will host free consultations regarding the replacement of the damaged jetty at the Kiama Boat Ramp. Additionally, the Council has also engaged a consultant, Advisian, to manage concept designs for the replacement.
Kiama Jetty Snaps off during Wild Storm. Credit 9News
The designs differ in removing or replacing the Western and Eastern Jetty as well as potentials to have two levels to the jetty for multi-tide access.
Local fisherman and member of the Kiama Central Precinct John Greer said his preference would be that the Western jetty is repaired.
“I think that the council really needs to consult with the boat owners around the harbour and the Kiama Harbour Boat Owners Association,” Mr Greer said.
“I know a lot of the people down at the harbour and the local boatman and they are quite vocal about what needs to be done.
“From what I have noticed they think that some of these plans are not going to work.”
Submissions for consultations close on September 19.
Kiama harbour is a work orientated environment which supports commercial fishing, deep sea fishing, whale watching charters and regular leisurely uses and recreational boats.