Consultation results in new plans for Mission Beach

Revised designs for the Perry Harvey Jetty and Clump Point boat ramp at Mission Beach have been released after extensive community consultation.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the plans for rebuilding and upgrading boating infrastructure delivered on the Government’s election promises and were being presented to the community this week.

“Works at the boat ramp now provide for an increase in car and trailer parking to 60 spaces, the addition of a new pontoon and the inclusion of toilet facilities,” Mr Seeney said.

“The jetty upgrades will accommodate larger vessels while the boat ramp upgrades will cater to smaller craft.

“The work is important for growing tourism as one of the four pillars of the economy, as we promised at the election, and providing local boaties with the marine infrastructure they need.

“More than 250 surveys were returned after the initial designs were displayed at the local shopping centre in Mission Beach in February.

“The team has taken on board the locals’ feedback and has made changes to proposed designs for boating infrastructure upgrades to reflect the community’s suggestions.

“Concerns about the visual impact of the proposed breakwater at the jetty have been taken into consideration with the height of the structure minimised. Two piled moorings for larger vessels can be located behind the breakwater and an access ramp will allow for safer transfer of passengers.

“These significant upgrades to Mission Beach’s boating infrastructure balance the diverse views the community expressed and are achievable within the budget and other project constraints.”

Member for Hinchinbrook Andrew Cripps said he welcomed the release of the revised plans and was pleased the department had listened to the local community’s feedback.

“I trust the revised plans will achieve good outcomes for recreational boaties, commercial users and the tourism industry at Mission Beach and I will continue working with the department to ensure we get the redevelopment right,” he said.

Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning staff will be at the Wongaling Beach shopping centre today showing residents the revised plans. The plans can also be viewed online at www.dsdip.qld.gov.au/resources/factsheet/mission-beach-safe-boating-infrastructure-fact-sheet.pdf

[ENDS] 2 April 2014

Media Contact: Jane Paterson 0417 281 754 or Elizabeth Spry 0418 928 744