Upgrade to the Anderson Road boat ramp in Cowes is underway.

The successful contractor, Glynmor Concreting, has commenced works on the pre-cast concrete slabs which will be used in the underwater sections of the new boat ramp.

The boat ramp will be closed to all users during the upgrade. The works are scheduled to commence from 11 August 2011, however this will depend on the weather which may delay this start for a few days. It is expected that the ramp will re-open at the end of September. 

Recreational boaters should use the Rhyll or Newhaven boat ramps for access to Westernport during that time.

Bass Coast Shire Council Planning and Environment Director, Hannah Duncan-Jones said the upgrade of the boat ramp was designed to improve its usability. “The end of the ramp will be lowered to below low water and the grade of the ramp will be increased,” explained Ms Duncan-Jones. "These are actions recommended in the Anderson Road Boat Ramp Boating Action Plan.”

The construction method uses pre-cast slabs on piles for the lower sections and the more traditional method of pouring concrete on site for the upper sections. This limits any environmental impacts and reduces the amount of time the boat ramp is closed during the upgrade works.

The total cost is approximately $500,000. Bass Coast Shire Council contributed $95,000 and secured funding from the Department of Transport of $405,000.

For further information please contact Paul Smith, Environment Manager on 1300 BCOAST (226278)