The McGowan Government is steaming ahead with the transformational, job-creating Westport project, today announcing a new Future of Fremantle Planning Committee.
The Western Australian Planning Commission will establish a Future of Fremantle Planning Committee for two years under the Planning and Development Act 2005.
With a new container port to be built at Kwinana, there are opportunities for wide-ranging discussions about the port precinct and across the broader Fremantle area.
The committee will examine the future redevelopment of Fremantle’s North Quay, and surrounding land, while continuing to develop a new vision for a Victoria Quay Waterfront Precinct.
The committee will be supported by Nicole Lockwood, the former chairperson of the Westport Taskforce, and a team within the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage to:
- develop a vision for the longer-term redevelopment of Fremantle Port’s inner harbour;
- develop an employment strategy to help inform a vision to maintain local jobs when the container terminals are relocated;
- examine planning matters in the North Fremantle Precinct and finalise the work being undertaken by the North Fremantle Development Precinct Technical Advisory Group;
- explore exciting new economic opportunities and developments for the coastal city.
The committee will include representatives from State Government agencies, Fremantle Ports, industry, local government and the Fremantle community.
A broader reference group will also be established with representation including local community members, and key Government agencies with specific regulatory or advisory functions covering heritage, design and public transport.
Significant projects to revitalise and re-energise Fremantle are currently underway or being planned including the Swan River Crossings project, the $100 million investment towards a new film studio and screen production facility, and the redevelopment of the heritage-listed A Shed on Victoria Quay into a microbrewery, restaurant, bar and harbourside alfresco area.
The McGowan Government is committed to delivering the job-creating Westport program, with the new container port project now entering its next stage to further define design and total cost.
As stated by Transport, Planning and Ports Minister Rita Saffioti:
“Westport is a once-in-a-lifetime project to deliver a new container port in Kwinana – it’s important we get it right.
“Looking at the future of Fremantle is an important outcome of Westport. That’s why we want to establish a Future of Fremantle Planning Committee.
“The committee would look at new economic opportunities and land uses for the port precinct and the broader Fremantle area.
“We already have exciting projects underway or planned for the area including the Swan River Crossings and the new film studio.
“This is the opportunity for the local community and stakeholders to work collaboratively with Government to plan for the future land use, development and future economic growth opportunities for Fremantle and the harbour precinct.”
As stated by Nicole Lockwood, Future of Fremantle Planning Committee Strategic Adviser:
“I’ve been involved in Westport since its commencement in 2017, so I’m really excited to be able to play a part in this project to ensure Fremantle takes full advantage of any opportunities flowing from the Westport decision.
“This process provides an exciting opportunity for the community, industry and government to work together to shape the future of Fremantle for generations to come.”
