Private Kwinana port advances

Plans for a private port at Kwinana, backed by BGC boss Len Buckeridge, progressed today after Planning Minister John Day tabled planning scheme amendments to facilitate the reclassification of a waterway reservation to an industrial zone.

Mr Day today tabled the metropolitan region scheme (MRS) amendments in parliament, which when finalised will enable the proponent James Point Port Pty Ltd to acquire necessary statutory approvals for construction and operation of the port.

"The proposed port, to be constructed and operated by James Point Port Pty Ltd, will offer Western Australian importers and exporters a choice of docking facilities and services for bulk goods," said Mr Day.

"The State will provide appropriate transport facilities to support the port and its users and this will also provide benefits to the local industry.

"This is a much needed facility and will have an important economic role for our State."

Stage one of the port proposal has already received Environmental Protection Authority approval.

Mr Day said that a later stage could involve the construction of new container facilities which would require a separate MRS amendment.

A study regarding the future provision of container facilities was currently being undertaken for the government for Transport Minister Simon O'Brien.

The MRS amendments are required to sit in both houses of parliament for 12 sitting days before becoming effective.

Once passed, the project will require subsequent development approvals.