Public to have say on future plans for Ningaloo Coast

9/01/08
Draft masterplans for Red Bluff and Vlamingh Head, which allow for significant new accommodation at two popular locations on the Ningaloo Coast, have been released for public comment.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said that as part of the State Government's strategy for appropriate and sustainable development on the Ningaloo Coast, the masterplans provided clear guidelines for future development.
"These draft masterplans will help ensure both locations are able to cater for long-term growth in the number of visitors to the Ningaloo Coast," Ms MacTiernan said.
"They will balance the needs of visitors and people living at Red Bluff and Vlamingh Head with the environmental sensitivities of these areas.
"Red Bluff is a popular site with surfers, about 100km north of Carnarvon, which currently has low-key camping and safari tents.
"The draft masterplan provides for a 12-unit valley village with low-impact, mid-range accommodation and 10 luxury accommodation units on the ridge overlooking the ocean.
"At Vlamingh Head, which is close to the Ningaloo Reef and about 18km north-west of Exmouth, there are currently 720 beds in caravan and camping sites and chalets.
"An extra 300 overnight beds are proposed for the area in the draft masterplan, which also provides additional guidelines for the type and locations of future tourism development."
All submissions will be considered by the Ningaloo Sustainable Development Committee and the Shires of Carnarvon and Exmouth when they consider the masterplans for approval.
The public comment period runs from Wednesday, January 9 until Wednesday, March 5.
The draft masterplans are available from the:

• Shire of Carnarvon
• Shire of Exmouth
• Department for Planning and Infrastructure, 469 Wellington Street, Perth
• Ningaloo Sustainable Development Office, Robinson Street, Carnarvon
• Internet at http://www.wapc.wa.gov.au/comment