THE state government has given the go ahead for a $95 million extension of Yaringa Boat Harbour, near Somerville.
The $95 million harbour expansion was announced by Planning Minister Richard Wynne Monday 31 October.
The announcement follows public consultation, Commonwealth approval and and conditions from an independent panel.
Eastern Victoria Region MP Daniel Mulino said the project included adding 180 wet berths to the existing boat harbour to be accessed along a new channel, 400 new dry berths, 180 tourist accommodation units, new marine services facilities, 120-seat restaurant and a conference centre.
“[It] will mean Yaringa is able to satisfy the growing demand for quality marina berths, undercover storage, repair and maintenance facilities and tourist accommodation in the area,” Mr Mulino said.
“This project will generate new jobs on the site and in the local economy. It’s a win for the region and will deliver a real boost to the Western Port area.
“We’ve included conditions to ensure this project is built in a way that respects the surrounding environment, including the wonderful and important Western Port wetlands.”
Mr Mulino said up to 860 jobs will be created during the two-year construction period and about 200 jobs once completed. The improvements would reflect community feedback, with continuing public access to the foreshore and across the site, as well as space for a horse trail on the northern and western boundaries.
“The project will be developed in a way that is sensitive to the surrounding marine environment, including the ecologically important Western Port RAMSAR site,” he said. “It will not impact on the operating hours or potential expansion of the nearby Port of Hastings.”
First published in the Western Port News – 1 November 2016
