Carnarvon could become the focal point for a tourism, commercial and residential development following the State Government’s call for Expressions of Interest on a waterfront site close to the town centre.

The site has mostly undeveloped land next to Carnarvon’s active commercial fishing harbour at the mouth of the Gascoyne River. It is about 1.5 kilometres south-west of the town’s commercial centre and overlooks the Fascine waterway, which links the yacht club to the river.

Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said the Expression of Interest process aimed to identify the interest of suitably qualified companies with financial and practical experience, to transform the site into an exciting mixed-use venue.

“If we can harness public and private expertise to create a vibrant and attractive water-oriented development demonstrating leadership in design and improving the amenity of the Carnarvon Boat Harbour, it will enhance the tourism appeal of the town and the region as,” Mr Grylls said.

“LandCorp is calling for Expressions of Interest from the private sector to initially investigate development opportunities on this site.”

“However, the Government is looking for a mix of tourism, commercial and residential development which takes into account the existing and future requirements of the commercial boat harbour,” he said.

The Expression of Interest process would ask interested parties to provide details of their design approach; outline the appropriate model for planning, delivery and tenure of the development; and submit a master plan that demonstrates the mix of tourism, commercial and residential land use.

Expressions of interest close at 2pm. (WST) Thursday August 27, 2009. To download a copy of the EOI visit: http://www.landcorp.com.au/project/carnarvonwaterfront