Support for plan to redevelop Geraldton foreshore area

24/3/93

Lands Minister George Cash, has thrown his full support behind a plan to redevelop part of the Geraldton foreshore area.

The proposal involves an area of Crown land in Marine Terrace, bounded by Durlacher Street, Foreshore Drive and Forrest Street.

Mr Cash said a steering committee involving the City of Geraldton, the Geraldton Mid-West Development Authority and LandCorp had been formed to oversee the redevelopment.

LandCorp has already committed $300,000 to the project over the next two years.

"The Government's commitment to this redevelopment recognises a long-held ambition by the City of Geraldton to upgrade the amenity and facilities in the foreshore and central business district area," Mr Cash said.

"This particular work will complement the council's ongoing program."

Mr Cash said the steering committee would meet today to consider a brief for a planning study to identify the most appropriate use for the land.

The study is expected to be completed by the end of July.

"The foreshore land has been assessed as surplus to Government requirements," Mr Cash said.

"It has been offered to LandCorp which opens up the door for a much-needed and very exciting redevelopment.

"Cleaning up the area and finding a suitable use for the land creates a host of tourism and lifestyle opportunities."

Mr Cash said, depending on the outcome of the planning study, the redevelopment could involve extensive upgrading of existing shops and offices in the area.

He said all lessees were being fully consulted on the project as final plans for the redevelopment would only go ahead with the support of the lessees.

"LandCorp has already met with lessees and outlined the proposed plans to them," Mr Cash said.

"As with all of its redevelopment projects, LandCorp, through the steering committee, will be fully consulting all those involved in the upgrading of the foreshore area.

"All sub-lessees can rest assured that all existing contracts and agreements with lessees will be honoured."

Mr Cash said the Geraldton foreshore upgrading was part of the State Government's commitment to the development of regional centres.

Media contact: Narelle Cant 222 9216