A $250,000 plan to upgrade terminal seating at Karratha Airport has been sent back to the drawing board after the City of Karratha rejected all submissions for the project.

The city had sought to replace ageing units with “modern, durable, and ergonomically designed seating” intended to enhance passenger comfort.

However, following an evaluation of bids from Zaneti Pty Ltd, Customer First Contracting, NAK Office Interiors, and Schiavello Systems WA Pty Ltd, the city determined that none of the proposals were suitable for award.

The official record of the tender outcome states the bids were rejected on the basis of “non-compliance, the proposed supply of lower quality products, and costs exceeding the approved budget”.

Despite the setback, city officials confirmed the terminal refresh remains a priority to ensure a “compliant, contemporary, welcoming and inclusive environment for all”.

The tender will now be taken back to market to obtain compliant submissions.