Green light for $4m jetty restoration

The state government has confirmed $4.5 million restoration works will go ahead on Carnarvon’s One Mile Jetty, almost six years after its closure to the public.

Up to 150 metres of the heritage listed site will be restored for pedestrian access, with works expected to be completed in late 2024.

The Department of Transport (DoT) will lead the project, working with the Gascoyne Development Commission and the Carnarvon Heritage group.

Regional development minister Don Punch said the redevelopment works on the heritage site would preserve its legacy for future generations.

"The restored jetty will be the centrepiece of the planned heritage precinct upgrades that will provide locals and those visiting Carnarvon with an interpretive experience, giving an insight to the region's unique history,” he said.

The jetty has been closed since 2017 after a structural assessment by the Gascoyne Development Commission concluded it was unsafe for public use.

Consulting firm Acil Allen was engaged in 2020 to develop repair plans for the jetty, producing 22 restoration recommendations to the state government.

A storm surge caused further severe damage to 360 metres of the jetty during Cyclone Seroja in 2021.

A report by the DoT determined parts of the jetty had to be deconstructed due to navigational hazard caused by the damage.

The $4.2 million deconstruction project was completed early last year by WA-based marine services contractor TAMS Group.

A contractor has yet to be announced for the restoration works.

About 900 tonnes of salvaged timber from the deconstruction project have been redistributed for the repair of the jetty, and to other community projects.

A heritage architect has been engaged to oversee removal and restoration activities on the jetty, which is listed on the State Register of Heritage Places and is under protection of the Heritage Act 2018.

Assistant transport minister David Michael said the government would ensure the restoration plans meet community expectations in the design stages of the project.

"It's exciting that there is now a clear plan for the restoration of the jetty that will provide future access for the community and preserve the memory of this coastal infrastructure icon,” he said.