The Maritime Infrastructure Delivery Office (MIDO) have advised that they are going to open the airforce channel as a navigable passage.

MIDO have confirmed that the airforce channel is approximately 2 metres in depth and will therefore be a safe passage.

This is a temporary measure, with navigational buoys due to be installed in 2 weeks.

Dredge works are planned to commence in February 2023. A longer term dredging program is scheduled for later in the year. Initially, dredging was due to take place in late 2022.

Ms Yasmin Catley MP – Member for Swansea said “Dredging of Swansea Channel is a project that has dragged out for far too long and has caused frustration within the local community”.

“While I am pleased MIDO are thinking outside the box, it is disappointing that they have not met their own timeline for dredge works”.

“Swansea Channel is the gateway to Lake Macquarie, and it is necessary that boaties have the confidence that the channel is navigable at all times”.

“Going forward, it is critical for MIDO to ensure that dredging is undertaken before shoaling occurs”.