Urban encroachment and its impact on efficient port operations is an issue for ports worldwide. We are concerned about the impact of any development on safety, security and efficiency of port operations.

If this type of development is to be debated, sites other than Fremantle should be included in that debate. It is much harder to find alternative deepwater sites for ports than it is to find alternative sites for a residential-type development.

A large residential development, including a marina, boat launching ramps, a performing arts centre, schools, retail and restaurants, would significantly increase traffic and congestion on critical routes used by container trucks. It gives rise to safety and efficiency concerns, as well as potentially constraining port operations in other ways, with complaints about 24-hour port operations.

We acknowledge that there is a shortage of boat pens and boat launching facilities in the metropolitan area, but mixing boat trailers with container truck traffic on access roads to North Quay will potentially create road safety problems and traffic congestion. Allowing many more recreational vessels to pull out so close to the harbour raises safety concerns.

The Inner Harbour will be needed as a container and general cargo port throughout this century.

Kerry Sanderson

Chief Executive Officer