$4.9m Esperance weir contract

The state government has awarded a $4.9 million contract to a Bibra Lake-based company for the construction of a new weir at Bandy Creek Boat Harbour in Esperance.

Italia Stone Group will begin work on the nine-month project in July, which will include 10,000 tonnes of earthworks and rockworks and the pouring of 400t of concrete.

The state government said the construction of the weir was expected to create 41 Western Australian jobs, 20 of which were anticipated to be regional.

Three apprentices will also be employed during the project.

After a significant flood event in 2007, the weir was reconstructed, and in February 2017. The current structure was overtopped by floodwater causing significant damage including erosion of its foundation and a collapse at the southern end.

The new weir will be less susceptible to future damage and will be located 50 metres upstream of the old weir, according to the state government.

Transport Minister Rita Saffiotio said the Department of Transport invested significant expertise in the development of the weir design and the local community expressed strong support for the project during earlier consultation.

"The design of the new weir will reduce sediment deposition from the creek in the boat harbour and has other community benefits including elevated access across the waterway for pedestrians, emergency and service vehicles," she said.