Another major marine development proposed for Cockburn Sound will undergo a full environmental assessment, following a decision by WA’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) this week.
The EPA has determined the proposed Kwinana Bulk Terminal Redevelopment – Marine Infrastructure will be assessed through an Environmental Review with a full Public Review.
Importantly, this project is separate from Westport.
The Fremantle Ports proposal involves redeveloping the existing Kwinana Bulk Terminal, including a new wharf with two ship berths, a causeway and approach jetty, tugboat moorings, and dredging for a turning basin, approach channel, and berth pockets. It also proposes ongoing maintenance dredging and offshore disposal of dredged material.
Recfishwest was one of only four organisationsto make a submission during the EPA’s referral consultation. All four submissions supported further environmental assessment and further opportunities for public review.
READ RECFISHWEST’S FULL SUBMISSION HERE
The EPA has now determined that a detailed assessment is required, identifying potential impacts on marine habitat, environmental quality from dredging and discharges, marine fauna, coastal processes and recreational values.
Recfishwest welcomes the decision to assess the proposal through an Environmental Review with Public Review, including a four-week public review period.
Another piece of a much bigger picture
While each development needs to be considered on its individual merits, the Kwinana Bulk Terminal proposal is another reminder of just how much change is planned for Cockburn Sound.
Alongside Westport, the Henderson Defence Precinct and other industrial and infrastructure projects, there are multiple developments that could affect the Sound’s marine environment over coming decades.
That’s why Recfishwest has been calling for a stronger focus on cumulative impacts, looking beyond individual projects to understand what the combined effects of dredging, marine infrastructure, shipping and other activities could mean for habitat, ecosystem health, fishing access and the overall fishing experience.
Recfishwest will remain engaged as the proposal progresses and continue advocating for a healthy, productive and accessible Cockburn Sound that supports great fishing for generations to come.
