DPaW project will benefit Bunbury: Minister

Work has started at the new location of the Department of Parks and Wildlife headquarters in Bunbury after State Government officials visited the site last week.

The block of land bounded by Koombana Drive and Koombana Park has been fenced off and contractor, BCL Group, has started ground works in the area.

The highly-anticipated development is the first State Government department headquarters outside of Perth.

Environment Minister Albert Jacob last week said Bunbury would reap the benefits of the project.

“This is very exciting news for the community,” Mr Jacob said.

“This degraded site on the city’s doorstep will be transformed as part of an overall tourism precinct vision.

“The area will be enhanced with a permanent pedestrian link between the Leschenault Inlet and Koombana Bay. Bunbury residents will also benefit from walk trails, a new lookout, upgraded boardwalks and other public facilities.”

Mr Jacob said the project would create 135 jobs during the construction phase and 600 once the headquarters was fully operational, generating an estimated $75 million per year for the region's economy.

“Not only will the development bring scientific, conservation and land management expertise to the region, it will also encourage local graduates and people interested in a career with the agency to stay in the area,” he said.