Harbour precinct may retain working role

The 80 ha Bays Precinct is still used for cruise shipping, a function which could change as part of a review announced last week.

The state government said it was undertaking a broad consultation process encompassing the needs of both public and business interests.

NSW planning minister Kristina Keneally said a decision on a permanent site for the city's cruise shipping berths would be made later this year.

However, future use of the site must fit with plans for a new refuelling facility announced last week and construction of the city's CBD Metro passenger line.

The consultation process "would also present to the community the reality that Sydney will need to continue to retain areas for a working harbour", Ms Keneally said.

The state government decided in 2003 to move ro/ro and break bulk trades to Port Kembla, freeing the Darling Harbour, White Bay and Glebe Island sites for unspecified use.

The transition was completed in November last year.

Ms Keneally said there was "ample room" for a mixture of uses for the Bays Precinct.

"We must set aside harbour areas for shipping, vessel maintenance and repair as well as major import industries,” Ms Keneally said.

“We will have debate about how much industrial land is needed and where, but Sydney cannot operate as a harbour city without areas for a working harbour.

“In particular, there will continue to be working harbour uses at Rozelle and Blackwattle Bays, including wharf maintenance and boat storage and repair.”