BUNBURY’S highly-anticipated marine facilities project has taken a crucial step forward with a state government allocation of $1million for environmental studies.
Bunbury MLA John Castrilli said the funding, delivered through Royalties for Regions, would allow the project to provide the city with improved marine facilities to move into its next phase.
“The completion of a full environmental and technical assessment of Casuarina Harbour, Koombana Bay and surrounds is a key step in enabling the project to go ahead,” Mr Castrilli said.
“The waterfront project and concept plans released earlier this year are part of an exciting vision for the future of our city.
“The important thing is that it is not just about providing facilities for boat users, the project is about building a marine industry on the door step of Bunbury’s CBD. It will improve public amenity on Bunbury’s waterfront and reconnect the waterfront to the CBD.”
The environmental analysis will build on previous studies done by government departments and consultants over recent years, with the work coordinated by the South West Development Commission.
Concept plans were developed by the Bunbury Marine Facilities Steering Committee, which is chaired by Mr Castrilli and includes representatives from the South West Development Commission, Bunbury Port Authority, Bunbury Marine Facilities Alliance, City of Bunbury, Landcorp, Department of Transport and Department of Lands.
The concept planning stage identified the need for environmental studies for the overall area stretching from Casuarina Harbour to the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre.
The concept plans were released for community consultation earlier this year and outline the development of a marine industry in Bunbury including a hub with a marina, commercial and public facilities at Casuarina Harbour and a marina in Koombana Bay.
There will be further community consultation and opportunities for feedback as the concept plan progresses.
