Central Coast Council is celebrating the completion of the $1.1 million boat ramp and carpark upgrade at one of the Coast’s most popular reserves.

The boat ramp next to Saltwater Creek reserve at Long Jetty has been re-opened to the public today and Council welcomes all locals and visitors to experience the new easy access to Tuggerah Lakes.

Council’s Waterways and Asset Manager, Mr Peter Ham, said this work involved significant upgrades to the boat ramp, main car park and trailer parking facilities in the Saltwater Creek reserve area.

“This new boat ramp and better trailer parking make it easier to launch your boat into the Tuggerah Lakes,” said Mr Ham.

“Council has provided 10 designated trailer parking spaces that will enable plenty of manoeuvring room for cars and boat trailers ensuring safer access to the water.

“In addition to the new boat ramp, boat owners can now enjoy the many facilities in the Saltwater Creek Reserve, including an open space reserve, barbeques, a BMX track and play spaces for children.”

The main carpark has been significantly upgraded to provide 83 designated car spaces and can now better service this very popular park and shared pathway.

The shared pathway through the site has also been realigned to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said these new facilities delivered on a Council promise to deliver more and better recreational opportunities for the community.

“We want our residents and visitors to get out and experience all the great things there are to do on the Coast, Mr Reynolds said.

“We know boating is a major pastime for our locals and having better boat ramps will mean the community can enjoy it more easily and safely.

“Not only has this upgrade improved the safety and access for boat and trailer users in the area but has raised the profile of the area and will attract more tourism into Long Jetty.”

The main carpark has re-opened to the public. It has been closed for some time and now people can enjoy full access to the Saltwater Creek Reserve in time for the school holidays.

For more information on Council’s projects go to www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au.