Media Statements - Minister launches revitalisation strategy for Geraldton

9/9/05

Removal of the railway line from Geraldton’s foreshore and construction of the southern transport corridor will pave the way for the rejuvenation and revitalisation of the city’s central business district, according to Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan.

At the Mid-West Economic Summit today, Ms MacTiernan released the Geraldton Regional Centre Strategy, aimed at co-ordinating the redevelopment of the CBD and its integration with the Greater Geraldton area.

“Current and anticipated land use and transport issues are addressed in the strategy and a comprehensive framework for detailed planning and strategic actions is provided to ensure the future growth of Geraldton as a regional centre,” the Minister said.

“Other initiatives to be introduced under the strategy include integrating the CBD with the foreshore and Champion Bay.

“The freight line has been a barrier to Geraldton fulfilling its potential as a tourism mecca - its removal and well thought-through integration plan will change that.

“Geraldton has long been recognised and promoted as the primary commercial, community and tourist focus for the Mid-West Region and the strategy will assist the regional centre to continue to develop in this role.”

A detailed implementation strategy to achieve the outcomes and guide the City of Geraldton forward is included.

Geraldton MLA Shane Hill said the strategy provided the city with a unique opportunity to revolutionise the CBD for the current and future residents and visitors to Geraldton and the region.

“All members of the community, government and private sector need to support the City of Geraldton in implementing the strategy and maximising the great opportunities presented for the strategy to work,” Mr Hill said.

“The jobs and lifestyle opportunities flowing from the strategy will benefit all Geraldton residents.”

The strategy evolved from the development and evaluation of a series of options in consultation with stakeholders and the community.

Copies of the strategy are available by from the Western Australian Planning Commission website http://www.wapc.wa.gov.au or by contacting 9264 7777 or 9956 0122.

Minister's Office - 9213 6400