Eden's wave attenuator design agreed

Previous issues with the location of the attenuator closing off one side of the middle, fishermen’s wharf have been resolved with a 50 metre gap proposed, between the middle wharf and start of the attenuator, to allow access for fishing vessels and tug boats.

Rob Bain from the Port of Eden Marina (Poem) said it was good news.

“We have agreed on the alignment of the attenuator and the way it is to be constructed,” Mr Bain said.

Members of the community liaison group will be shown the proposal at their next meeting on Wednesday, July 25, and further information on the breakwater wharf development will be on display at the Eden Fishermen’s Club on Thursday, July 26, 6-7.30pm, Mr Bain said. 

He confirmed that the attenuator would be fixed using piles similar to those currently being driven into the seabed for the wharf extension. The piles will have a concrete barrier or skirt between them and will have additional bracing at an angle into the seabed.

“We believe that the design will provide the safe harbour and an area for a marina,” he added.

It is understood that the design will allow for up to a 169-berth marina although when the invitation to tender is released for the marina design, different companies may have varying ideas on how to use the space.

Crown Lands commenced “early contractor involvement activities” with Waterway Constructions, for the attenuator. The company is building the wharf extension, and there would considerable cost savings if it moves seamlessly across from the wharf to the attenuator.

Mr Bain believed that a contract might be awarded in October with work to start in January 2019. However there is currently a funding shortfall.

It is believed that the attenuator will cost $19 million of which $10m and more recently a further $1.5m have been allocated.

“It’s very good news; we still have to sort out the final funding and I am waiting on news but I am confident it will go ahead,” Mr Bain said.