Derwent Ferry: Survey results find general support for proposed new Sandy Bay ferry terminal

A survey of Sandy Bay residents and the broader Hobart community has revealed the level of support for the proposed new Derwent Ferry terminal at Lords Beach.

Concept design of proposed new Derwent Ferry terminal at Sandy Bay. Picture: Hobart City Council

The proposed Derwent Ferry terminal at Sandy Bay has received strong backing from local residents, a new survey has found.

Despite fierce opposition from a number of people living close to the site, it appears the broader community endorses the plans for Lords Beach off Sandy Bay Rd.

The Hobart City Council commissioned engagement firm Capire to help run a public consultation process regarding the ferry terminal project.

Concept design of proposed new Derwent Ferry terminal at Sandy Bay. Picture: Hobart City Council

The engagement occurred over a three-week period in March and received feedback from 467 participants via online and in-person surveys, written submissions, one-on-one conversations, pop-up activities, and focus groups.

Ultimately, 64 per cent of Sandy Bay residents indicated general support for the proposed Lords Beach location, while 71 per cent of the broader community backed the project.

The council said 22 per cent of Sandy Bay locals and 19 per cent of the wider Hobart community opposed the plans.

At the Lords Beach site, there are plans for a kiosk, toilets, bike storage, and charging infrastructure for e-bikes and e-scooters.

A report on the Lords Beach consultation process, prepared by council officers, said a final decision on the plans would be made at a general meeting of the council this month.

“Further consideration of this matter by council will need to identify strategies to help mitigate the concerns identified,” the report said.

Concept design of proposed new Derwent Ferry terminal at Sandy Bay. Picture: Hobart City Council

“A number of residents living in close proximity to the proposed site have expressed strong opposition to the proposal.”

While supporters of the project have welcomed the potential for an alternative transport option and increased visitation to Sandy Bay, opponents have raised concerns about safety and parking and traffic congestion and have questioned the demand for a ferry service to the area.

The Greater Hobart councils received $20m in funding from the Albanese government in 2022 to expand the Derwent Ferry service to three new terminals at Sandy Bay, Lindisfarne, and Wilkinsons Point.

A condition of the funding agreement is that the councils ensure the three new terminals are completed by June 30, 2026.

Concept design of proposed new Derwent Ferry terminal at Sandy Bay. Picture: Hobart City Council

Since the service between Bellerive and Brooke St Pier was launched in 2021, more than 360,000 passengers have jumped on board.

The Hobart City Council is now assessing the recommendations and themes emerging from the community feedback phase before confirming the location and design of the Sandy Bay terminal.

A further three Derwent Ferry terminals are set to be investigated at Regatta Point, Geilston Bay, and Kingston Beach once the first expansion phase is completed.

Originally published as Derwent Ferry: Survey results find general support for proposed new Sandy Bay ferry terminal