Council’s decision on a development application lodged by Nelson Bay Charters, owner of the Wallamba and Argonaut, will determine access rights to the wharf and its floating pontoon by all ferry operators.

The application was deferred at the last meeting of council following a recommendation that it be refused on the grounds that wharf facilities could not adequately and safely cater for passenger loading. The papers also sighted insufficient car parking and said the proposal was “not in the public interest.”

Owner of Port Stephens Ferry Services, Adrian Thompson objects to the development application, he said constant use from ferry operators would leave no room for the public.

“It will become totally congested, we use three boats over Christmas time, if another came along it just wouldn’t be able to sustain it.”

“We can’t clutter up the wharf more than in already is.”

However Ray Horsefield, owner of Nelson Bay Charters said it is possible for the two services to operate via a single wharf.

“If there were slightly different timetables two services would be able to operate.”

As part of the recommendation to council, staffers have suggested Nelson Bay Charters be directed to immediately cease use of the public wharf and the Port Stephens Ferry Service be directed to lodge a development application within two months.

Council records indicate Port Stephens Ferry Services, owner of the Spirit of Tea Gardens, MV Tea Gardens, MV Jessie and Simba lodged a development application with Great Lakes Council in 1996 however a decision was never made.

Mr Thompson said in addition to contributing $7500 towards its construction Port Stephens Ferry Services contributed to the wharf’s planning.

“We drew up plans and sent them up to council to give them a guide.”

A final decision is expect to be made at Council’s regular meeting next Tuesday, September 22.