Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Bunbury Waterfront development?

The Bunbury Waterfront development plans to transform the waterfront through the creation of four precincts – Eastside, Bayside, Oceanside and Harbourside.

It will create an enhanced public waterfront, walkways and cycleways, a new marina and improved boating facilities, a range of retail outlets, restaurants and cafes, tourist accommodation, and office and residential space.

To ensure the project moves forward in a timely manner, in line with community aspirations a review by the Bunbury Waterfront Taskforce is currently underway.

Q: Why is the area being developed?

As the unofficial capital of the South West, Bunbury is among the State’s fastest growing regional centres.

The Bunbury Waterfront project will inject new life into the city, creating a world class tourism destination which aims to provide job opportunities and exciting recreational and lifestyle choices for a rapidly growing population.

Q: Who is involved in the project?

The project is managed by the State Government’s property developer LandCorp.

Planning complex projects like Bunbury Waterfront involve a range of local and State government bodies, including the City of Bunbury; departments of Environment and Conservation; Planning; Transport; Environmental Protection and Water to name a few.

LandCorp is working with these agencies to deliver a development which meets community, business and stakeholder expectations.

Q: How much will it cost and how will this project be paid for?

The scope of the project is currently review by the Bunbury Waterfront Taskforce, chaired by Bunbury MLA John Castrilli. An initial report addressing planning issues is expected to be delivered by October 2009.

Q: What will the taskforce do?

To help ensure appropriate and timely development takes place in line with community expectations, the Bunbury Waterfront Taskforce has been formed. Its terms of reference include:

• Defining the regional open space and city uses; and other uses of State interest
• Creating a policy statement for developing any area indentified for urban purposes
• Establishing requirements for an environmental review of the project area
• Establishing transport planning requirements
• Advancing an amendment to the Greater Bunbury Region Scheme for public comment

The taskforce endorsed the formation of a technical advisory committee.

Chaired by an independent consultant, the technical advisory committee will assist in resolving any planning issues relating to the Eastside development and the Greater Bunbury Region Scheme.

Its final report to the taskforce is expected to be made by October 2009.

Q: Will public access to the area be restricted?

Plans have always provided for complete public access to the Bunbury waterfront.

It would be expected revised concepts developed following the recommendations of the Bunbury Waterfront Taskforce would provide for similar access.

Q: What sort of commercial businesses will be accommodated?

As revised plans evolve, it is anticipated a balance of residential and commercial space will be available. This includes apartments, short-stay accommodation, offices, retail, restaurants, cafes and bars, and entertainment and tourism options that will vary in accordance with market demand.

Q: What benefits will Bunbury and the surrounding region gain from the development?

The development goal has always been be a place for both visitors and residents to celebrate, recreate, and enjoy, and a place to play and live. Access to the foreshore will improve, public beaches and facilities will be enhanced, business opportunities will increase and Bunbury will be promoted as a world-class destination.

It is estimated the project will attract significant investment for the city over the next 30 years and thousands of jobs will be generated during the building phase and beyond.

Q: Has the environmental impact of the project been assessed?

The Bunbury Waterfront project has always set out of factor in important environmental aspects, including the nearby white mangrove habitat.

The environmental impact of the project will be assessed as part of statutory approvals.

This involves the development and implementation of management plans where applicable to ensure the project meets environmental standards.

Q: Has the community been consulted on the development?

Since late 2008 we have worked with the City of Bunbury to encourage alternative models for the waterfront development which take into account community aspirations and the requirement for best financial prudence.

Building on earlier consultation sessions, the waterfront project will continue to include the community with further information and public consultations anticipated for the future.

Q: How can I record my thoughts on the project?

You can provide your feedback, ask a question or register your interest to receive email or postal updates by joining our waterfront community.

For further information call LandCorp's South West Information Line on 1300 730 594 for the cost of a local call.