"This is an essential first step in making the channel navigable before the summer season ," Mr Winning said

"We are also delighted with Mr Coombs' statement in Parliament concerning the funding of a dredge."

Council's Aquatic Services Committee had recently called for dredging works to be followed by the acquisition of a permanent and locally-based dredge.

"To have the Department of Lands prepared to negotiate with Mayor Piper for funding of the dredge is a giant step forward," Mr Winning said.