Published on Tuesday, 10 January 2017 at 12:00:00 AM
Construction of the Beresford Foreshore Coastal Protection Project, one of the City’s largest Capital Works projects to date, is finally underway.
Stretching more than two kilometres in length, the first stage of the project involves the construction of a 100m extension to the detached breakwater, a 45m extension to the existing groyne and three shore based rock revetment structures to mitigate the effects of erosion.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the Project, which is designed to protect critical infrastructure, wouldn’t have been possible without State government funding.
“There is approximately $55 million of State and Local Government owned infrastructure located along the Beresford Foreshore including water, power, sewer, gas and telephone lines, the road and other community assets,” he said.
“Without State Government funding contributions of $17.28 million from Royalties for Regions and $4 million from Midwest Ports Authority to undertake the project this critical infrastructure would remain at risk from coastal erosion.”
Construction of the first stage will also inject millions of dollars back into the local economy with locally based civil contractor Central Earthmoving being awarded the contract.
Central Earthmoving Managing Director Craig Patterson said he is thrilled to be involved in the project.
“The Beresford Foreshore is a very popular recreation area and I appreciate being entrusted to deliver such an important infrastructure project which will enable us to maximise the benefits for Geraldton,” he said.
Protection works which extend from Marina Beach, also known as Midalia’s Beach, in the south to Trigg Street in the North are scheduled for completion in July 2017.
Construction works will begin at Marina Beach where fences will be erected to ensure community safety. Motorist, cyclists and pedestrians are requested to exercise caution and obey all warning signs and directions from authorised City personnel and contractors during the construction period or consider using alternative routes.
The City has budgeted $1.85 million towards the project for second stage coastal enhancement works to replace amenities lost to erosion and build new infrastructure including a toilet block, shade structures, lighting, playground equipment, drinking fountains, showers, picnic settings, benches, barbecues and bicycle racks.
For more information on the Beresford Foreshore Coastal Protection and enhancement project go to www.cgg.wa.gov.au
PHOTO CAPTION:
Central Earthmoving Commercial Manager Gary Patterson (left), City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn and Central Earthmoving Project Manager Rob Criddle review protection works plans on site at Marina Beach.
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