The state government will ask the private sector to submit proposals for the expansion of Exmouth Boat Habour, which is increasingly catering for super-yachts and ideally placed to service the oil and gas industry.
Transport Minister Simon O'Brien said the proponents would be asked to consider the results of the public consultation process, which have been endorsed by the government.
"The 'Exmouth Harbour Development Community Consultation Report' found there was widespread community and stakeholder support for the harbour's expansion," Mr O'Brien said.
"Analysis of feedback forms distributed as part of the consultation process found there was combined support for the project of 66 per cent which was more than three times the number against the proposed expansion."
The Minister said two proponents were assessed as suitable after an expression of interest was called in 2007 for the expansion of the harbour to service the offshore oil and gas and other maritime industries operating in the region.
"The Department for Planning and Infrastructure will now formally request proposals from each proponent. Proposals will be subject to further public consultation and assessment by Government agencies," he said.
"There is increasing demand for harbour facilities in the Gascoyne region and Exmouth is ideally located for companies servicing the offshore oil and gas industry, at the same time as catering for the increasing number of super yachts and launches travelling to the world famous Ningaloo Reef.
"The operational focus of the harbour, which was built in 1997 to accommodate the fishing, charter and recreational vessels, is changing.
"Progressing the expansion of the Exmouth Boat Harbour presents an exciting opportunity for the people of Exmouth and the Gascoyne region."
