City faces cost blow-out for ramp works

The Town budgeted $330,036 for work at the ramp, with an extra $825,000 coming from the Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme under a three-to-one funding ratio.

However, a late request for additional works by the Trust has left the Town facing an extra cost of $207,299.

At last month’s council meeting Town chief executive Stuart Wearne said the town had requested additional funding under the same three-to-one ratio but it was uncertain if any would be forthcoming.

He said shortly after applying the State Government went into caretaker mode ahead of the State election and that its success was not looking promising amid State budget woes.

However, he later said there was no connection between the two.

‘The request has given rise to various issues, including the issue of available funds,’ he said after the meeting.

‘Having met officers of the Department of Transport today, I accept there is no connection between the Department’s stance and the Government’s current cost cutting measures.’

If additional funds are not received, the Town’s final contribution will be $537,335.