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'Port city' to retain its working port facilities

Media Statement

June 9, 2009

“Port city” to retain its working port facilities

THE City of Fremantle strongly objects to the proposal that its port facilities be moved from the City south to James Harbour within the City of Cockburn.

City of Fremantle Chief Executive Officer Graeme Mackenzie said it has always been Council’s policy position for the “port city” to remain a working port as it was a vital part of Fremantle’s economy and an iconic landmark on the West Australian coastline.

“Traditionally ports have grown around economic centres.  But around the world you now see working ports changed into boutique ports and residential developments with the industrial working port being relocated out of sight,” he said.

“It makes you think that this is an opportunity for Fremantle to retain a working port right in the heart of the City.”

Mr Mackenzie added that the Fremantle Port Authority (FPA) was currently considering two options for the port’s outer harbour.

“The FPA has always said that it will run two ports, an inner harbour and an outer harbour,” he said.

Mr Mackenzie said the biggest issue for the Fremantle community was the trucks moving cargo in and out of the port causing congestion on roads.

“The key issue that needs to be resolved with the State Government’s help is the efficient transport of shipping containers in and out of the port area by road and rail,” he said.

Mr Mackenzie added that the City of Fremantle would make a submission to the State government’s Fremantle Ports Optimum Planning Group recommending the port be retained where it currently stands.