The proponent is committed to developing the marina and associated facilities in a manner that properly addresses environmental and social issues as well as incorporating comprehensive environmental management measures.

As part of the development approval process, a comprehensive assessment of environmental issues has been carried out.

The results of this assessment, as well as construction and operational Environmental Management Plans, were made publicly available during the Sate approval process and in the Preliminary Documentation.

In brief, this assessment found that impacts associated with the construction and operation of the proposed marina would principally be limited to within the boundaries of the State Boat Harbour where disturbances from boating and associated infrastructure already exist. Any effects extending beyond harbour boundaries (e.g. minor turbidity effects during dredging, or changes to the number of vessels traveling to and from the harbour) would be small and would not cause any significant adverse environmental or social impact.

Importantly, the technical studies undertaken showed there would not be any significant adverse effect on the wider Tin Can Inlet or the Great Sand Straits, both of which support important habitats.

Federal Government approval from the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPC), is required as the proposed development has been determined to be a ‘controlled action’ to be assessed by Preliminary Documentation.

Preliminary Documentation was placed on public display which ended on September 23, 2010. We are currently collating and gathering the information needed to address the submissions received during the public comment period. Once this is complete, a report detailing the comments received and presenting the responses to these comments will be prepared. This report will be placed on public display and submitted to the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Community (SEWPC).