Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwer said the NSW Government has responded to concerns about the Lord Howe Island Critical Infrastructure Program (LHI CIP) confirms that significant elements of the proposed marine infrastructure and new vessel remain under review, while community engagement continues.
“In correspondence to me, the Government says community consultation is a “core commitment” of the program, including regular community consultation group meetings, community updates, project team contact and community representation on the Project Control Group.
The response went on to say, the proposed new marine vessel is being designed to operate using both roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) and lift-on, lift-off (LoLo) configurations. The existing practice of unloading freight by crane onto trucks is expected to continue, alongside forklift-based RoRo operations.
Importantly, the vessel design is still being modified following feedback from the Lord Howe Island community. Changes include an increased weathertight cargo area, greater crane capacity, additional cargo storage, increased bunkering capacity, improved crew accommodation and additional cargo-securing fittings.
Concerns also remain regarding the proposed marine infrastructure, including the jetty.
The Government has confirmed that principal contractor Reeves Envico is undertaking a Marine Infrastructure Feasibility Study to examine community feedback and alternative solutions. The study is considering different concept layouts for both RoRo and LoLo operations, with particular attention to vessel requirements, safety and mooring arrangements.
This review is significant because the design of the marine infrastructure will have long-term consequences for freight operations, the island community and the World Heritage environment.
The LHI CIP master planning and concept designs were developed through workshops, meetings and interviews with the Lord Howe Island community during 2024 and 2025. However, continued consultation and the current feasibility work demonstrate that important questions about the final marine infrastructure solution remain unresolved.
The environmental approval process is also continuing. An Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared as part of the Critical State Significant Infrastructure approval process, with assessment by the NSW Department of Planning, Infrastructure and Housing and consideration of approvals under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
Given Lord Howe Island’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site of natural significance, the proposed marine infrastructure designs have also been presented to Heritage NSW and the Australian Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
“I hope this clarifies the proposed redevelopment, but if any Islanders have any further issues please do not hesitate to let me know,” Mr Dwyer said.
Media Contact: Terry Sara 6584 0977
