The McGowan Government today announced the Port Hedland Spoilbank Marina design will include a four lane boat ramp, doubling the original size of the boat launching facility, following strong community feedback.
Feedback from boat users and the Port Hedland community has seen the original two-lane ramp replaced with a four-lane option which will greatly improve the safety of launching and retrieval operations, particularly in peak periods.
Input from the project Community Reference Group in July along with insights from international marina design expert Jack Cox, who has been engaged to work on the entrance design, have significantly advanced concepts for the marina.
The Department of Transport's call for registrations of interest in boat pens at the marina has also been well received with 20 registrations formally lodged.
Additional to the pens and boat ramp the marina will include two breakwaters and internal revetment walls and an access channel separating marina traffic from shipping activity.
There will also be public open recreational space and improved public access, parking, toilet facilities and areas for pop-up stalls.
Visit http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/phmarina to see the concepts and get more information about the project.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"The Spoilbank Marina is an important project for the Pilbara community and my Government is committed to delivering it.
"The project will inject economic activity into the region, creating local jobs in the local Port Hedland economy.
"This is a key part of our Plan for the Pilbara, providing support to ensure Port Hedland continue to grow into the future."
As stated by Regional Development and Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The important work of the Community Reference Group, together with the knowledge of the international and domestic experts engaged, means we are closer to a detailed design that maximises the functionality and safety of the marina.
"A four-lane boat ramp will benefit local and visiting boat owners with enhanced safety and ease congestion at busy times.
"The ongoing collection of tide, wave and other data will inform decision making as the project moves forward.
"An increased harbour basin in the latest concept means long term capacity for up to 80 boat pens at the marina and the registrations received to date will guide the number and size of pens to be delivered in the initial construction project."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"A key part of my role as the Member for the Pilbara is to make sure the community's voice is heard on important projects.
"I'm very happy that the Government has taken on board community feedback and decided to expand the boat ramp from two ramps to four.
"This will make a big difference to the final design of the marina and make sure Port Hedland residents receive a waterfront amenity that suits the needs of all the community."
