A new superyacht marina could be built in Berrys Bay, Sydney if plans are approved by Australian officials.
A development application was put in to the North Sydney Council by Berrys Bay Marina Company Pty Ltd in July for a AUS$20 million (£9.17 million) marina development, which will enable the bay to accommodate superyachts.
Parts of the proposed site, which is on the Waverton Peninsula, are derelict and are currently not open to the public. Under the plans, 34 new berths will be created for yachts up to 45 metres, as well as a new yacht club.
An initial proposal for the site was first submitted in 2009 and has since been revised and developed following a further consultation in 2013. There is a public exhibition of the plans, which will be open until September 7.
The development has been met with concern from local residents who claim it is out of “character and scale” with the local area. Some are concerned that superyachts will block the views of the city skyline and bushline.
The managing director of Berrys Bay Marina Company Pty Ltd has told local press that it is a “low-scale development” in comparison with others in Sydney.
Berrys Bay is not the only area in Sydney which is earmarked for development. Spit Marina is currently undergoing expansion to attract superyachts. And in Queensland, construction is also underway at Port Douglas marina.
The government is trying to make the country more accessible to superyachts. Australia is now offering temporary superyacht charter licenses for foreign yachts to help to increase numbers.