Marina study nets mixed results for Port aux Basques

Port aux Basques should finally have an official answer on its proposed marina development in the near future.

The town submitted a funding proposal worth nearly $1 million to ACOA in early 2006. It was one of 39 similar funding requests received by the funding agency.

All such proposals were put on hold when ACOA hired St. John's based Tract Consulting to review the need for additional marina services throughout the province.

The marina project includes the construction of two sets of floating docks (about 24 slips), a small office and washroom facilities, as well as a travel lift to take boats out of the water for repairs or winterization. The plan would see the facility developed in the area behind the Coleman's Food Centre building.

After several delays, the completed study was turned over to the federal and provincial government, which cost-shared the $40,000 report, earlier this year. It was released to the media only in recent days.

Each of the proposals has now been reviewed by ACOA officials and the submitting towns should receive official response from ACOA in the next few weeks, according to Doug Burgess, director of public affairs with ACOA.

Mixed results

The study found only small potential for economic benefits from marina developments, said Mr. Burgess.

He said there was little data available the origins or destinations of boaters who visited Newfoundland harbours, but indications are that the main users of marina facilities are local residents. Also, many vessels are mainly self-contained, meaning visitors have little reason to spend money in the nearby town.

That's not good news for the communities across the province hoping for funding to help develop marina facilities. However, Mr. Burgess said that with significant elements of partnership, community buy-in and a sustainable future plan, government funding could be available. Each application will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

The study says several positive things about possibilities in Port aux Basques.

It identifies the town as one of four gateways, or initial points of entry, into the province. The study says that gateways, including Port aux Basques, are "strategically located to intercept the key out-of-province markets, so the upgrading of facilities in these ports should be given a priority."

Port aux Basques is a starting point for boaters touring the west and south coasts and "would be expected to capture recreational boating traffic that is moving down the St. Lawrence River from Upper Canada."

The study suggests a partial service marina would be appropriate for Port aux Basques, and would include: fixed and floating dock space; potable water and electrical supply; washroom, shower and laundry facilities; landscaped site; available fuel; access to lift out services and repairs; and nearby amenities.

nmusseau@gulfnews.ca