Frankston Safe Boat Harbour

Frankston City Chief Executive Officer Steve Gawler said the Frankston Safe Boat Harbour is a step closer to reality, with Council working closely with the State Government to finalise its Preferred Development Model for the facility.


"In February last year, a workshop was held to allow Councillors to gauge the degree of support for the project from both State Government and private sector levels. As the Safe Boat Harbour is to be substantially funded and operated by the private sector, this support hinges on the long-term viability of the project.


"As a result Council endorsed a Preferred Development Model which highlighted additional elements considered necessary to ensure its viability. The four main changes Council has agreed to were to remove restrictions on vessel and berth sizes, increase floor space for commercial facilities (i.e. boat repairs, food, marine retail), provide for dry boat storage, and include short-stay accommodation.


"Council wrote to the Planning Minister, seeking State Government agreement for the Preferred Development Model in terms of the project scope, extent of government assistance and preferred process for delivery.


"The Minister has now referred the Preferred Development Model to the Priority Development Panel (PDP), an independent advisory body, for advice on alignment with State Government policy, required planning scheme changes and implementation process.


"The PDP will be considering the project during the first quarter of 2008. It has sought, from Council, detailed information in draft form including a planning scheme amendment, siting and design guidelines, a traffic management study, as well as a list of key stakeholders with whom the Panel should consult, prior to advising the Minister.


"A State Government decision on the Preferred Development Model, along with the process of implementation involving amendments to the planning scheme, is expected in the second quarter of 2008."


The next steps:


1. Consideration and acceptance of Council's Preferred Development Model (PDM) by the State Government

2. Approval of a planning scheme amendment reflecting the PDM by the Planning Minister

3. Implementation of preferred delivery process

4. Invitation for tenders to construct and operate the facility

5. Selection of successful proponent

6. Design and planning compliance including modelling

7. Establish Community Liaison and Reference Group

8. Approval of plans for construction



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Media Contacts:

Silvia Van Orsouw: 9784 1005;  or silvia.vanorsouw@frankston.vic.gov.au  

Paul Kennedy: 9784 1812; or paul.kennedy@frankston.vic.gov.au

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