Exmouth grows as gateway to the Ningaloo Coast

3/6/04
Two more major developments have been secured for Exmouth, boosting the town's future as a major tourist centre serving the Ningaloo Coast and the Gascoyne region's other natural attractions.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan has approved the sale by LandCorp of a 28ha canal-front residential precinct for $1.6million and a 13ha commercial/residential zone for $2.5million.
Ms MacTiernan said the sites were part of the State Government's $16million Exmouth Marina Village Project, which was expected to attract private development worth more than $100million.
The Minister said the residential development lot had been sold to Balwyn Rockingham Pty Ltd, part of the Lester Group, and was expected to yield 128 canal-front lots.
"Such is the interest in this area that I understand the developer has received inquiries on every lot they plan to develop," she said.
Ms MacTiernan said City and Suburban Group Pty Ltd was the successful purchaser of the mixed-use lot.
The developer plans to create a mix of residential, offices, shops and entertainment areas.
"City and Suburban has experience in similar mixed use and tourist projects, including Ascot Quays in Perth and Margaret's Beach Resort and Margaret's Forest at Margaret River," the Minister said.
Settlement on both lots was expected by December this year, with construction likely to start in 2005.
"The latest sales and the recent $1.5million sale of a 5.5ha resort site to Sunrise Beach Resort Pty Ltd supports the Gallop Government's plan to nurture sustainable development of the Ningaloo Coast," Ms MacTiernan said.
"We are doing this by focusing development on established centres such as Exmouth and Carnarvon.
"The sale of the three sites and the purchasers' development plans will provide a tremendous boost for the local economy, including the creation of jobs in the region's growing tourism industry.
"The State Government's support of Exmouth Marina Village has clearly opened the door for private sector investment.
"It will also serve as a foundation for the expansion of the region's exciting tourist industry based on its unique natural features, such as its teeming waters, rugged gorges and spectacular coastline."
Minister's office: 9213 6400