The inquiry launched by the Banks Peninsula District Council into the disintegration of the Lyttleton marina is a great
start but needs to be widened to include the finding of safe marina facilities for recreational boaties," National List
MP for Banks Peninsula David Carter said today.
"The devastation of Thursday's storm has not only wrecked the marina, but also the confidence of recreational boaties in
Canterbury's ability to provide adequate facilities in our province.
"The terms of reference of the inquiry must be widened to include the identification of a safe location for a marina so
this sort of disaster doesn't happen again.
"To date, the Lyttleton Port Company and its controlling shareholder, Christchurch City Council, have shunted too much
responsibility for marina facilities onto the Banks Peninsula District Council. They will have to get involved in the
identification of a safe facility servicing the region of Canterbury.
"There is also a role for Central Government that can't be ignored.
"Some attention must now be given to recreational issues. The situation in Lyttleton is unique. It may require a
compromise between the vested interests of commercial port activity and recreational usage.
"While the marina disaster was heartbreaking for the boat owners, it has served as a wake-up call for the port company
and both local and central government.
"Something positive can come out of this and I want to work with everyone involved to ensure recreational boaties have
the facilities they need in our province," Mr Carter said.
Ends