The South West is the most popular regional tourist destination in Western Australia. 
Overall vision for transforming waterfront supported
Thursday, 10 December 2015
Feedback obtained through recent public consultation has
revealed that the vision for transforming Bunbury's waterfront has
the support of the majority of the public.
The South West Development Commission-coordinated public comment
period in October resulted in the State Government agency receiving
about 170 responses, mostly from residents of Greater
Bunbury.
Of the submissions received, 95 per cent indicated approval for
the overall idea for breathing new life into the city's
waterfront.
SWDC chief executive officer Don Punch said the generally positive
nature of the responses meant that the committee responsible for
coordinating the project was confident that it was on the right
track.
"We will be looking at tweaking some of the minor details within
the vision as a result of comments submitted, but the overall
message received is that people are looking forward to seeing the
vision realised and want the project to proceed as soon as
possible," Mr Punch said.
"The public consultation highlighted the importance of
amenity.
"It also underlined the opportunities for new mixed-used
development and found that people were focused on the importance of
marine infrastructure for the growing boating community.
"There were some concerns about water quality and these will be
dealt with through the environmental review process, which already
has $1million in Royalties for Regions funding allocated to
it."
Bunbury MLA John Castrilli said people had told him they were
excited about the potential for new areas for people of all ages to
enjoy.
"Whether people want to go for a leisurely walk along the public
promenade and watch the boats sail past, or enjoy improved
facilities at the dolphin centre and better access to the beach, it
is important that the planning caters for all needs," Mr Castrilli
said.
"Boat users and marine infrastructure are of course a central part
of the plans, but the public accessibility and enjoyment is also a
major factor in the success of this project."
The first phase of the Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront project
includes the revitalisation of the Koombana Bay foreshore and
redevelopment of the Dolphin Discovery Centre.
This would be followed by the enhancement of public open space
along Casuarina Drive, and upgrades to Jetty Road.
Finally, Casuarina Boat Harbour and the Outer Harbour would be
transformed through the creation of a marina and marine industry
facilities.
The project is expected to improve the city's shorelines for
community use, as well as boost the local tourism and marine
facilities.
Other benefits are expected to include better connectivity between
the waterfront and central business district, and opportunities for
encouraging new investment in the city.
The Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront committee is chaired by
Bunbury MLA John Castrilli, coordinated by SWDC and includes
representatives from a range of organisations.
For more information about the Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront
project, visit www.swdc.wa.gov.au .
…ENDS
Media contact
Teneille
Watson
Community Relations Officer
M: 0417 961 051
