Passenger terminal topic of conversation among residents

Passenger terminal topic of conversation among residents

Construction of a new Sydney Ports passenger terminal is underway in Rozelle, which will take up 500 metres of light rail track.

The move has sparked uproar in the local community, with local residents questioning the benefit of the construction.

“We’ve known for a couple of years now that we we’re getting this Cruise Terminal at White Bay,” member of sustainable transport advocacy group Eco Transit, Nathan English said. “The idea was floated when Kristina Keneally was Planning Minister and approved by [Tony] Kelly under Part 3A.

“The Review of Barangaroo by the O’Farrell Government pretty much cemented it.”

White Bay is located on the south-eastern arm of the Balmain Peninsula, where the terminal will cater for the domestic section of the cruise industry. Mr English said Sydney Ports had not collaborated adequately with the local community.

“Last week they ripped up 500 metres of the track we’ve been eyeing for a future light rail corridor, which could have served the entire Balmain Peninsula and their cruise terminal as well,” he said. “If this concept were ever harnessed the way we suggest, it would also provide a new entry point for the northern CBD, without the need for motor vehicles from the entire inner west.

“That would actually alleviate the Anzac Bridge traffic, not increase it as the current Cruise Terminal arrangements seem destined to do.”

Sydney Harbour has two passenger terminals: the Overseas Passenger Terminal and Darling Harbour Five Cruise Passenger Terminal (CPT), which was previously located at Darling Harbour Wharf Eight.

Mr English said: “I and others who live here have long hoped this Cruise Terminal might provide a lifeline for old Balmain in that respect. But so far we’ve seen no such provision in the current design.”

Balmain is among the oldest settled suburbs outside of the CBD.

“Sydney Ports’ failure to collaborate has offended many locals who would otherwise have been accommodating of the concept for a Cruise Terminal,” Mr English said. “They’re now wondering why Sydney Ports has rejected every good suggestion to construct something, which could have proven cohesive to its position.

“The local community has been having this discussion of late and it’s been very well received. A number of local councillors liked the idea of light rail to Balmain, including the Liberals. But Sydney Ports has kept its blinkers on.

“It makes it more expensive, which I think they know.”

 

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