The $1.64 billion Port of Townsville expansion has been officially approved today, after the independent Coordinator-General handed down the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the Coordinator-General approved the Port Expansion with conditions that addressed all concerns over environmental and social impacts, including ensuring the health of Cleveland Bay.
This announcement is a significant step closer for the Port in expanding its capacity of larger freight and cruise ships, generating increased growth in trade and investment and tourism opportunities for North Queensland.
The Queensland Government has committed $75 million towards the channel works, which will start next year pending Commonwealth approval of the Additional Environmental Impact Statement and finalisation of funding. A decision by the Commonwealth Government is anticipated by 24 October.
The Port's Channel Widening Project is a key priority outlined in the recently released Townsville North Queensland 2017/18 State Election Priorities, was a part of the Townsville Enterprise 2017 State Budget Submission and is a key initiative outlined in the City Deal.
Advocacy Alert: Port Expansion Approval
29th September 2017
