New agreement on location of Lyttelton Ferry Terminal

7 January 2008

A Memorandum of Understanding between the Christchurch City Council, ECan and the Lyttleton Port of Christchurch will see all parties working together for the relocation and/or redevelopment of the ferry and charter boat facilities.

This will include berthing, car parking and public toilets. Other issues to be considered are bus, pedestrian and cycle facilities as well as safety, security and access to the town centre.

The state of the ferry facilities in Lyttelton has been widely debated by the community over the past few years, with users dissatisfied with the lack of car parking, restricted access for passenger and the lack of shelter.

Jane Parfitt, City Environment General Manager at the Christchurch City Council says “The collaborative approach between the major stakeholders is a great  opportunity to address these issues and to scope options for going forward. A working party has been set up  and will soon consult with organisations, companies and people with a strong vested interest. The Council has made a strong commitment to public transport and is keen to improve facilities for residents and visitors. The MoU places an obligation on all three partners and will ensure the whole matter is progressed.

“There will be full public consultation and we anticipate some robust debate’’

Peter Davie, of the Lyttelton Port of Christchurch says “We have made a commitment to explore all options for providing a better public transport network for the harbour. There are many areas to consider and we will be ensuring we look for the best possible solutions.’’

Dr Bryan Jenkins, ECan chief executive, said ECan's focus is on maintaining the best possible connection for passengers on the Metro Diamond Harbour ferry service. "People who use the ferry need to be able to get to Lyttelton easily or transfer to our Metro bus services.  We recognise the need to ensure all transport options are explored within Lyttelton Harbour and look forward to working proactively with the City Council and Lyttelton Port Company to achieve this.

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