Balmain West ferry services resume after more than a decade

Ferry services have returned to Balmain West wharf in Sydney's Inner West for the first time in over 10 years, with the state's transport agency saying additional services could be introduced if passenger numbers are strong.

The wharf, which reopened on Monday morning, will be serviced by four morning ferries from Chiswick to Circular Quay and four afternoon return services from the city after 3pm.

Balmain West wharf was closed in 2013 by the then-Coalition government due to low usage, with just 48 daily passengers recorded at the time.

Transport for NSW coordinator-general Howard Collins said the trial would gauge commuter interest.
"We are encouraging people who live locally to look at this as a quick alternative into the city," Mr Collins said. "If locals find it useful, then we'll encourage the operator to expand services."

Currently, ferries will run only on weekdays, but Mr Collins indicated weekend services may be considered in summer if demand grows.
"I think in summer this will be a spot people will want to come to," he said.

Local residents had long campaigned for the service to return, pointing to recent apartment developments near the wharf and worsening road congestion, particularly following the Rozelle Interchange opening.

Coinciding with the reopening, a three-vehicle crash on the Anzac Bridge on Monday morning forced the closure of two eastbound lanes, causing significant delays through Rozelle.