Commissioner to weigh up marina master plan

The final master plan on how the multi million-dollar transformation of the Sutherland Street waterfront will look is due to be considered by the Town of Port Hedland tomorrow night.

After months of consultation and public meetings, Commissioner Fred Riebeling will consider the plan for the $95 million Spoilbank Marina, which includes 80 boat pens, four boat ramps, a nature playground and a floating public jetty.

It would also have additional parking bays, a grassed promenade and space for potential pop-up food and drink outlets.

The project was first announced in October last year, with community consultation sessions held by LandCorp in August and September.

At an ordinary meeting in May, the Town confirmed its contribution of $24 million to the harbour component of the marina, with the remaining $71 million from the State Government.

The plans have been split into two phases, with Stage 1A to deliver the critical infrastructure for the marina, including the boat pens and ramp, parking bays and recreation facilities.

Stage 1B will allow for the provision of pop-up food and drink outlets.

Mr Riebeling said the master plan for the marina had been finalised.

He said the Pilbara Development Commission was driving an accelerated program and was hoping to begin earthworks as soon as possible in 2020.

“The master plan outlines recreational spaces, infrastructure and amenities, which will transform the Spoilbank into a hub of economic and communal activity,” he said. Mr Riebeling said the marina was a much-anticipated project for the community that would transform Port Hedland.

“I’d like to thank the members of the Spoilbank Community Reference Group and the State Government for their guidance and support on this project,” he said.