Work has started to build a $4 million state government-funded fishermen's wharf project including an unloading jetty, two new large mooring berths, an extension of the boardwalk along Kooloonbung Creek and the realignment of the rock revetment.

The Grill Steak, Ribs & Seafood owners Dhak Bahadur (DB) Chowhan and Sunita Chowhan hope the wharf attracts more people to the precinct.

"Economically, it will be helpful for the businesses, the community and the whole Port Macquarie area," Mrs Chowhan said.

"The more tourists come in, they are spending more dollars.

"I'm not sure how much it will be good for the environment."

Mr Chowhan said the commercial wharf would be helpful for business if more people were attracted to the foreshore precinct.

Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams welcomed the start of work on the commercial wharf.

Construction is expected to take 10 months.

"This long-awaited project has been on the drawing board for a number of years and to now see equipment in place for the construction is very welcome," Mrs Williams said.

"The new public wharf is set to become the perfect location to drop a line or to buy fish directly from commercial fishermen.

"The unloading jetty will also provide efficient and safe access for ambulances and other emergency services that need to respond to any marine incidents.

"The two mooring berths will service large commercial vessels and the new unloading jetty will include vehicle access.

"This will provide a significant improvement to Port Macquarie's coastal infrastructure to support boating, fishing, tourism and other commercial activities."

The Department of Industry - Lands awarded the construction contract to Roseville-based marine contractor GPM Constructions after a tender process.

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