Hobart’s future ferry network could potentially include stops in Lindisfarne, Howrah, Wilkinsons Point, Sandy Bay, Regatta Point and Kingston Beach as part of a new draft plan.
The 6 sites were identified from 33 potential locations that would expand Hobart’s ferry service and are currently out for public consultation under the River Derwent Ferry Service Masterplan.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the introduction of services between the proposed locations would initially focus on easing congestion between Hobart’s eastern and western shores and would eventually build connectivity along the river.
“Once finalised, the masterplan will guide the expansion of ferry sites and services on the river, mapping out where sites will be and what they will look like,” Rockliff said.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson said the potential sites were assessed against 18 criteria, including water depth, demand and whether a ferry would be quicker than a car.
The mayors of Hobart, Clarence, Kingborough and Glenorchy have welcomed the announcement of the expansion plan as a “top priority”.
They said a federal government commitment made in 2021 of $20 million for the creation of ferry infrastructure at Lindisfarne, Wilkinsons Point and Sandy Bay was also their “initial focus”.
“We would certainly welcome a commitment to a staged expansion of the ferry service beyond these three new terminals – particularly south towards Kingston, which we see as a top priority for a future stage,” they said.
“Given the pressures on our roads and bus network, this project is a top priority that needs definitive funding from the state government to move forward as quickly as possible.”
