A marina waterfront development for Port Hedland is another step closer with Council last night endorsing Spoilbank as its preferred location for the development.
Mayor Kelly Howlett said a new waterfront development would be a game changer for the community.
“We’ve been working with the State Government, stakeholders and community members for a number of years on a proposed waterfront development – last night’s decision takes us another step closer with Council endorsing the western side of Spoilbank as its preferred location.
“A waterfront development will truly activate our amazing coastline, and provide water-based recreation and leisure opportunities and create a social and leisure destination for local and international visitors.
“Our waterfront is ideally placed for activation with boardwalks, event spaces, swimming areas, playgrounds, fishing platforms, cafes, barbecues, exercise areas, and improved boating facilities – and that’s exactly what this marina precinct will deliver on.
“Council endorsed a proposal that will see a staged development with 100 boat pens and four boat launching ramps to begin with, a lagoon swimming facility, community events space, commercial and retail and space for eco-tourism development.
“Residential development will not be included in the precinct, however it is worth noting that the State Government has recently announced the Finbar commercial development on the old Hospital site which is in close proximity to the proposed marina.
“Council also endorsed the investigation of town planning controls for the West End area to restrict further densification of residential development.
“This decision comes after months of discussions with our community reference group which was formed to help guide the decision-making process for the waterfront precinct development.
“The group actively reviewed reports, concept plans and investigative studies and was made up of community members, Town of Port Hedland elected members and staff, project stakeholders, industry bodies, local businesses and community organisations.
“A number of studies were undertaken to explore and test the location, scope and feasibility of the precinct. Due diligence investigations allowed the comparison of both the Spoilbank and Cooke Point sites objectively based on their advantages and risks.
“After careful decision, Council have endorsed Spoilbank as its preferred location – this provides clarity around the project and allows us to get on with the job of progressing the development.
“We will now progress a business case for the development including full risk assessment and economic analysis and commence negotiations with the State Government for the $112 million funding agreement.”
The State Government has previously committed $112 million towards the project and the Town of Port Hedland has committed $40 million.
Source: Town of Port Hedland