SOUTHERN Moreton Bay island residents have asked for ferry terminal upgrades to include wider gangways and weather protection.
They also want ferry terminals to accommodate fishing and have provision for recreational boaties to tie up craft.
But whether or not they get the extras depends on costs and practicalities.
Engineering and design firms Cardno and Architectus have been hired to design the ferry terminals by the state government and Redland City Council and have been briefed on feedback, with a proposal to accommodate where possible.
Cr Mark Edwards said while all the ferry terminals were in dire need of an upgrade, the Russell Island ferry terminal was a priority because of its condition.
He said more than 600 people had provided feedback through surveys conducted at each of the terminals and hundreds of island residents offered their views at meetings with council’s project team.
“There will also be further opportunities for people to have a say when council, DTMR, Cardno and Architectus present draft concepts for community feedback early next year,’’ Cr Edwards said.
Transport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Southern Moreton Bay Island ferries made 1.4 million passenger trips annually.
“Appointing a respected team of engineers and designers is a crucial first step in delivering new, upgraded terminal infrastructure that’s safe and accessible for all ferry passengers,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“The Queensland Government has contributed $290,000.
“...It includes $250,000 from the Queensland Government’s Passenger Transport Infrastructure Program, which Redland City Council has agreed to match and demonstrates what can be achieved when State and local governments work in partnership.”
Mayor Karen Williams said the engineering and design appointments followed extensive consultation with users of the Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra island ferry terminals.
Designs developed by Cardno and Architectus would help council prepare a business case to apply for funding for the upgrades.
“Ferry terminals are the gateways of our island communities,’’ Cr Williams said.
Main Roads and Ports Minister Mark Bailey said the terminals played an important role in the lives of those who lived or visited the islands.
“Ultimately choices will be dependent on funding available, but everything raised will be considered in the design of the upgrades,’’ Mr Bailey said.
Further consultation is slated for early next year and the final design concept will form the basis of a business case to be used for funding applications.
No timeframe has been confirmed for work to start.
