Ports of Auckland Limited (POAL) has opened consultation on a new range of plans for development of the port – which sees expansion in the ‘mixed modal’ operations of the port – which includes vehicle operations.
For mixed modal, the plan offers alternatives, both of which involve the extension of Bledisloe wharf.
One version envisages a 135 metre extension, which would see Marsden Wharf retained, while the other sees a 179 metre extension, which would mean Marsden Wharf going into public use.
Both would see part of the structure at the end of the pier removed to make space for an additional berth.
The new plans focus on being more efficient with existing container space, including the use of taller straddle carriers for higher container stacks.
The new options indicate that a third rail line into the port is not required, and that the Grafton Gully port-link for trucks is proving sufficient – port truck traffic making up just 7% of total.
The options would help ease an issue previously reported by AutoTalk – the conflict between vehicle carrier berthing and cruise ships.
POAL handles around 170,000 vehicles a year and is the biggest arrival point for vehicles, new and used, in the country.
Consultation is open until June 9, and the consultation document features a link to fill out a survey on the plans.
View the document online HERE
