Friday, 23 February 2023
The Allan Labor Government is taking action to set the long-term strategic direction for one of Melbourne’s key maritime precincts with the release of the Williamstown Local Port Area Plan.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne said work on the Williamstown plan has been completed following extensive community feedback.
The Williamstown plan provides clear direction on the future of the precinct’s five piers and jetties, access-channel sedimentation and provisions for larger vessels, along with key actions to support the successful function of the local port area and ensuring it continues to be a jewel in the crown for its local community.
Local port area plans are developed to understand use and function of port facilities ensuring the best outcomes for our communities, the economy and environment. Parks Victoria, as the relevant local port manager, has led these priority planning projects.
Late last year, stakeholders and key users gave feedback on the current facilities and future activities they’d like to see at Williamstown that informed the final plan. Proposed outcomes include the already funded vital repairs to Workshops Pier to improve commercial vessel berthing at Seaworks.
Additional improvements to harbour safety, access and function will be achieved through proposed plans to streamline future dredging in the precinct and upgrade Boyd Street Pier for berthing of commercial vessels and emergency response services.
A Local Port Area Plan for Sandringham has been released with Mornington Harbour currently being finalised and Sorrento expected to be ready for community feedback in 2024.
Victoria’s local ports drive significant regional economic growth and employment and contribute more than $900 million per annum to local and regional economies through tourism, marine activities, and industries.
The Victorian Government is committed to implementing a long-term strategy for the future management and maintenance of our piers and jetties. The Williamstown Local Port Area Plan can be viewed at www.engage.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight, and Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne
“Developing local port area plans for these popular waterside destinations helps safeguard maritime heritage, tourism potential, and direct future investment where it’s needed most.”
“Consulting with community and stakeholders was essential so we could deliver a tailored local port area plan and ensure these valuable precincts serve our businesses and communities’ changing needs in the future”
Ends.
Media contact: melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au
