Dampier Marina plan scuttled for growth and infrastructure upgrade

The Hampton Harbour Boating and Sailing Club has scrapped its marina proposal and is instead planning a $25 million upgrade to more than double its offering. The club decided against building a marina, which would cost more than $80m, because it would not be viable. Instead, the Hampton Harbour infrastructure upgrade is set to include a four-lane boat ramp, increased parking, an additional fuel stop and a floating service jetty and a slip lane and be accessible at all tide levels. Club commodore Jamie Bartlett said the new concept would benefit the wider community, tourism, and local industry. “The marina concept wasn’t viable, wasn’t really feasible, we couldn’t afford it,” Mr Bartlett said. “With this, not only can we bring in new business by way of resources or tourism, but we can double our current membership.” Club development rear commodore Will Scott said the new plan would cater for more than 2000 people, far beyond that of the dumped marina project. “We abandoned the idea of the marina because it was only going to service a small percentage of the community, under 100 people,” he said. “Where if we go this way, we can serve just about everyone within the Karratha Dampier area. “The whole plan was worth $80-90 million, servicing only about 100 people. This will cost $25-30 million, serving thousands of people. The community benefits straight away there.” Mr Bartlett said the business plan and costings were being prepared. “It’s been a conversation that’s been going on for 20 years. Finally we’ve got an executive committee that are actually committed to doing it and it will happen. It should be realised here,” he said. Mr Scott said they hoped to secure funding from the State and Federal governments and local industry and begin construction by the end of the year.