The Kingston Pier Channel Construction project is progressing well, with the completion of the final draft of the selected design Option 3a, ahead of upcoming consultations.
Ensuring local knowledge and expertise informs this important project, Option 3a was selected after extensive COVID-safe stakeholder and community engagement, both online and via teleconference, earlier in the year.
The chosen option, which was selected from four initial and two additional design options as best fitting the project requirements, allows for more than one vessel to use the channel at a time to access the Pier (subject to swell and weather conditions).
Advisian Pty Ltd, the contractors engaged to undertake this project, have prepared the 80% Design Report for further community and stakeholder consultation commencing 23 November 2020, through online feedback and stakeholder teleconferences. The report will be issued electronically, with feedback welcomed to make sure it meets community expectations before finalising the design.
The Australian Government and Advisian are committed to ensuring that the final design and construction of the project delivers the best outcomes for the community, the economy and the environment.
The Project Steering Committee has approved the digging of four test trenches in the channel to collect data which will form part of the submission for the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPCB) Act Referral. It is anticipated that these test-trench works will be undertaken in early November 2020.
The Kingston Pier has always been a vital link to Norfolk Island. The Australian Government remains committed to ensuring this project delivers a safer channel, a more accessible pier, and helps the local economy grow sustainably into the future.
Any enquiries about the project can be made to: territories_projects@infrastructrure.gov.au
Eric Hutchinson
Administrator of Norfolk Island
12 November 2020