Recreational fishers can look forward to bridge

Fishing enthusiasts will soon benefit from a $15 million project that will see the construction of a public access bridge at Turkey Point in Bunbury.

Works will include design and construction of a new access road from Estuary Drive with a bridge over Preston River and tie-ins to Estuary Drive at the existing road to Turkey Point.

Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the construction was expected to support more than 150 jobs over the next two years in the Bunbury region.

“This major construction project will support jobs and stimulate local businesses as we work to reopen our State’s economy,” she said.

“The Port of Bunbury plays an integral role in supporting our State’s economy and this project will help pave the way for increased trade through the port.”

The bridge will define the northern boundary of the Port and support the eventual construction of Berth 10 and future rail expansion.

“This road has a number of really important functions and it enables us to move ahead with port planning,” she said.

“We no longer have to have public access right through the port, which has always been a challenge.

“It is very important that we get this basic work done that is going to enable us to see the Bunbury Port continue to expand.”

Bunbury MLA Don Punch says this is a great project that drives two things.

“It positions the port well for future expansion and efficiency and it separates the people’s interest in Turkey Point from trucks using the port,” he said. “The operations of one of our key economic drivers in the Port are improved, local people get better, safer access to a favourite fishing and recreation sport and we are creating local jobs.”

Geotech works are planned to commence from September, with ground preparation and earthworks to follow from February 2021. The final stage of bridge construction is commencing in late 2021.