The new Port of Ponza is a reality. Mayor Piero Vigorelli gave the okay to the project submitted by Marina di Cala dell’Acqua, July 12 the formalization. In January 2018 work will begin, and in June 2020 those who want to enjoy the charms of one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean will finally be able to do so. In an unobtrusive and well-structured marina (which was born primarily as a port and certainly not as a “city”-our coasts are littered with these non-places that look like cathedrals in the desert), made by experts. And redeveloping an area, Le Forna, which was the site of a bentonite mine from 1935 to 1975.
THE VIGOR OF VIGORELLI
Meanwhile, let’s applaud Vigorelli’s foresight. It took a 72-year-old Swiss-born journalist to stir things up. To finally promote healthy and efficient nautical tourism in Ponza and to restore the decay of the former bentonite quarry. Together with Ports Councillor Giuseppe Feola, they put the procedures for issuing the concession “back on track.”
AN EXAMPLE TO FOLLOW
A good example to follow that follows a simple yet often ignored concept: make ports where there is a real need.
In the case of Ponza, finding moorings on the island has always been a real challenge. In 2009, for example, the Latina prosecutor placed almost all of the port’s floating docks, 350 berths, under seizure, forcing those who had decided to make their way to the island to anchor in the roadstead.
WHAT THE NEW PORT WILL LOOK LIKE
Specifically, the Cala dell’Acqua Marina project (referenced in all the renderings accompanying this article) envisions 454 berths (up to 50 meters), with a maximum mooring depth of 16 meters. In addition to the reception, it will be equipped with toilets, showers, 24-hour security, and electric cars. Ferry lines from the mainland will dock at the port, and the port will be connected to the town of Ponza. www.marinadicaladellacqua.it
