A Partnership Proposal Document is now available to parties interested in working with council on the Inner Harbour concept of our Coromandel Harbour Project.

The concept investigates long-term options for development around Coromandel Wharf, which could accommodate a commercial area, plus space for charter boats, recreational and ferry usage.

Sugar Loaf Wharf (Te Kouma) Photo: File

Thames-Coromandel District Council chief executive David Hammond says there could also potentially be a model of marina and on-shore activity to help offset development costs if there was demand.

'The price tag on the Inner Harbour concept could be up to $50 - $60 million,” explains David, 'so council has given support that we go out to potential funders using a Partnership Proposal Document.

'There is no way our council will be going it alone when it comes to funding this project if it is to progress.”

The investor-styled document was approved by council in October, and following minor amendments, the final version was signed off in November.

The PPD will be used to introduce potential investors and partners to the project and will help provide council with a better understanding of whether the concept can get financial backing, says David

'The document spells out the history of the Coromandel Harbour Project and proposed options for the future within the Inner Harbour.

'The invitation is for any group or organisation to get in touch with us if they see potential partnership opportunities.”

David adds there will be on-going discussions with the Waikato Regional Council and central government to get input and explore partnership opportunities.

'We also acknowledge iwi, community and environmental groups have strong interest in this project and we will also be having on-going conversations with those stakeholders also.”

The next steps for council will now be promoting the Partnership Proposal Document to gain interest from potential investors and partners.

In the interim, if the preferred option for the Inner Harbour doesn't progress for whatever reason, an alternative proposal for development at Furey's Creek could be taken into consideration.

To read the Partnership Proposal Document visit the Thames-Coromandel District Council's Coromandel Harbour Facilities Project webpage.