Balmain East ferry wharf is Sydney’s 2nd busiest commuter wharf yet it is not accessible to those with mobility issues or using prams, prompting local Greens MP Jamie Parker to initiate a campaign for an urgent upgrade.
Mr Parker has called on the NSW government to urgently improve accessibility to the wharf, citing patronage data showing that after wharves such as Circular Quay and Manly that cater to both tourists and commuters, Balmain East is Sydney’s 2nd busiest commuter-only wharf.
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“The wharf should be upgraded as a matter of urgency to improve accessibility for people with a disability, a mobility issue or those using prams,” Mr Parker said.
“Gaining access to the ferry at low tide currently means 12 steps – this is clearly beyond the capability of many people and must be addressed.
“For many people who rely on public transport to commute and remain connected to the community, this is a significant and unfair barrier.
“I have written to the Minister to highlight the commuter patronage data and to request that the wharf be upgraded and accessibility improved as soon as possible,” Mr Parker said.
Mr Parker recently joined the Minister for Transport to open Balmain’s newly upgraded Thames Street wharf and said Balmain East is the logical next step.
“I’m committed to ensuring our local public transport is accessible for everyone and am asking the community to let me know any other areas of concern so I can add them to our priority list for improvement,” Mr Parker said.
Mr Parker met with local resident Warren Fahey, a regular commuter with a mobility issue, who has joined the campaign to upgrade the wharf. Photo available upon request. Mr Fahey is also available for comment.
Commuter data collated from the Ferry Load Census as conducted by the Bureau of Transport Statistics over 2010 to 2012. Full data list available upon request.
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More information: Alison Martin 9660 7586 or 0432 941 533
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