Key Takeaways
- The Ferry Bridge swimming spot in Marlborough will be closed until June 2027 due to flood repair works
- The closure is necessary to ensure public safety and allow for the completion of important flood control work
- The Department of Conservation (DOC) has closed the Whites Bay campsite and beach due to significant flood damage
- Alternative swimming spots are available in Marlborough, and the public is encouraged to explore new destinations
- The council monitors water quality at nine beaches and 10 rivers, and results can be found at www.lawa.org.nz
Introduction to the Closure
The popular Ferry Bridge swimming spot in Marlborough will be closed until June 2027, as announced by the Marlborough District Council. This closure is due to the long-awaited stopbank repairs that are set to get underway. The council’s infrastructure and services manager, Richard Coningham, stated that the closure is necessary to ensure public safety, as the large machinery operating on both sides of the Wairau River will disturb the river’s silt, making it hazardous for swimming. This decision was not taken lightly, and the council apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause to the public.
Reasoning Behind the Closure
Coningham explained that the council is prioritizing the safety of the public and the completion of the important flood control work, which is crucial for the protection of the Spring Creek community. While the council will consider temporarily opening Ferry Bridge for swimmers if the opportunity arises, no promises can be made. The council encourages regular users of the river and the wider public to explore alternative destinations, as Marlborough has plenty of rivers and seaside spots to offer. However, one popular destination that will not be available is the Whites Bay beach, which has been closed due to significant flood damage.
Impact on Whites Bay Beach
The Department of Conservation (DOC) closed the Whites Bay campsite in July, and as a result, there is no access to the beach. The remediation work is complex and will take time to ensure the site is safe for visitors. DOC operations manager Stacey Wrenn stated that the organization is working hard to restore and reopen the site as soon as possible, but more information on a timeframe will be available later this year. The DOC website confirms that the campsite will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period, leaving visitors to find alternative destinations.
Alternative Swimming Spots
The Marlborough District Council currently monitors water quality at nine beaches and 10 rivers, which are designated as recreational swimming spots. However, not all of these spots have suitable water quality for swimming. The public can check the latest water quality test results at www.lawa.org.nz to find a safe and suitable spot to swim. With the closure of Ferry Bridge and Whites Bay beach, the council encourages the public to explore new destinations and enjoy the many other rivers and seaside spots that Marlborough has to offer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the closure of the Ferry Bridge swimming spot and the Whites Bay beach is necessary to ensure public safety and allow for the completion of important flood control work. While this may cause inconvenience to some, the council is encouraging the public to explore alternative destinations and enjoy the many other rivers and seaside spots that Marlborough has to offer. By monitoring water quality and providing information on safe swimming spots, the council is working to ensure that the public can enjoy the region’s natural beauty while staying safe.