Transport Minister Simon O’Brien has announced an expert group to help guide the critical future expansion of Fremantle Port.

Mr O’Brien said the Fremantle Ports Optimum Planning Group would develop recommendations for the long-term trade needs of Fremantle Ports and surrounding areas.

“In recent years, port planning processes have been ad hoc and inadequate, exemplified by issues such as the poor road links,” he said.

“The expert group I have assembled will identify all the options available and enable the Government to remove uncertainty and plan the way ahead.

“For too long Fremantle Ports and James Point Pty Ltd have worked in isolation and this group will involve both parties in future port planning.”

The Minister said the planning group would begin work immediately and report directly to him. It would be chaired by former Main Roads Commissioner Greg Martin and include Department of Planning and Infrastructure Director General, Eric Lumsden and WA Port Operations Taskforce Chairman, Professor Fred Affleck.

“It is critical our port infrastructure needs are properly examined to ensure the best outcomes for the State,” he said.

“The group will determine optimal facilities to cater for the long-term needs of container and other trades.

“The recommendations of the expert group will help the Government ensure adequate future port and related infrastructure for Perth.”

Mr O’Brien said the group would consult widely with all interested parties including, Fremantle Ports, James Point Pty Ltd, local government, State Government agencies such as Main Roads, transport operators and stevedores.

The group’s specific objectives would include an examination of:

• the optimum facilities in the Outer Harbour to cater for the needs of container and other trades into the future, including an examination of Fremantle Ports’ Kwinana Quay and James Points’ proposals
• the optimum road and rail transport   links  to service these facilities
• land requirements in the Outer Harbour area to support long-term port needs for services such as intermodal terminals and container parks
• the cost of providing the optimum facilities
• likely timeframes for developments
• an appropriate delivery strategy outlining the recommended roles for Government and the private sector in the delivery of the facilities.

The Minister said there would be a detailed assessment of issues should container trade and some other trades be relocated from Fremantle to Kwinana.

“This will look at the economic, financial, environmental, operational and social issues, as well as the timing, if transfer of particular trades is seen as appropriate,” Mr O’Brien said.

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