Commuters using the Sackville Ferry will need to plan for delays as the service pauses daily from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm between Monday, 25 November, and Thursday, 28 November 2024. Transport for NSW has confirmed that the disruption is due to essential maintenance aimed at improving the safety and efficiency of the crossing.  

Commuters will need to take alternate routes during the closure, which may significantly increase travel times, according to a statement from Transport for NSW.  

Drivers can detour to the Lower Portland Ferry, adding around 20 minutes to their journey. For those on the eastern side of the river, River Road provides an option, while motorists west of the river can use West Portland Road. Alternatively, detouring through Windsor could add approximately 35 minutes to the trip, with eastern-side drivers taking Sackville Ferry Road, Wisemans Ferry Road, and Cattai Road, and those on the western side using Sackville Road.  

Emergency services will retain access to the Sackville crossing during the work hours, but a delay of about 20 minutes is expected while the ferry is reset to allow for crossings, according to Transport for NSW.  

The maintenance will involve concrete being poured over the beams at the ferry approach, which are used for mooring during high tides and emergencies. 

“Transport is improving the durability of the beams at the ferry approach, which are used for mooring during high tides and emergencies. We will be covering the beams with concrete, increasing safety for all ferry users and our workers,” Transport for NSW said in a statement.

While the scheduled work is expected to conclude by 28 November, adverse weather conditions, including wind, flooding, and tides, may extend the timeline. “Our working hours are 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. When carrying out work on ferry crossings, conditions such as wet weather, wind, tides, and flooding can slow or stop the work. For these reasons, the scheduled work times provided can change or be extended. If works at Sackville Ferry crossing are complete before Thursday, 28 November, ferry service will run as normal,” Transport for NSW said.

Transport for NSW is urging commuters to plan their journeys and allow extra time during the maintenance period. 

Live updates on ferry operations and traffic conditions will be available via Live Traffic NSW at 132 701 or livetraffic.com