The potential for a new marina development in Mandurah is being treated with scepticism from the region’s politicians, despite a recent report suggesting any environmental concerns can be managed.
Developer Tian An Australia wants to construct a 300-berth onshore marina on the western side of the Point Grey peninsula, which would also include retail, recreation and tourism facilities.
However, the project would require the construction of a 2.5 kilometre navigation channel across the Harvey Estuary.
Environment Minister Stephen Dawson asked the Environmental Protection Agency to re-look at the proposal last year – but their report, released last month, suggested there were no new environmental concerns.
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Despite the Shire of Murray supporting the proposal in principle, Murray-Wellington MP Robyn Clarke said she remained unconvinced.
“There are some environmental concerns that I hold about the proposed Point Grey marina, particularly in regards to the potential impacts on the water quality and local marine life from dredging,” she said.
“These are concerns that the local community has held since the project’s initial approval.
“Whilst the EPA may have found that an extension of the approval period is appropriate, I disagree.
“I believe that the long-held concerns of the community warrant the proposal being reassessed and reconsidered.”
Mandurah MP David Templeman echoed Ms Clarke’s comments and said he had relayed his concerns to Mr Dawson.
“As Member for Mandurah I remain concerned about the Point Grey proposal,” he said.
“During the initial developmental approval process I made comment on the proposal and, like many who made submissions, was concerned about the proposed dredging of the estuary bed from the Dawesville Channel to the proposed Marina at Point Grey and the impact that will have on water quality and the fishery.
“Those concerns remain. I understand Minister Dawson will now consider the EPA recommendations and I have advised him of my concerns.”
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