Mayor backs Libs plan for Bunbury
Bunbury Mayor David Smith has welcomed Premier Colin Barnett’s announcement that a re-elected Liberal Government would commit $15 million to build the WA Parks Authority at Turkey Point.
Mr Smith commended the move, saying it would provide more jobs and help raise the city’s profile.
“Firstly, it means extra jobs and that is always important, ” he said.
“Secondly, it ensures extra research and emphasis on South West regional and conservation parks and reserves.”
“Thirdly, the Premier specifically refers to Bunbury as the second city of WA and that strengthens our resolve to work with the State and Federal Governments to make it so.”
Mr Barnett announced the Department of Environment and Conservation would be split into two stand-alone agencies – the Department of Environment Regulation and the WA Parks Authority.
He also said $20 million would be spent on WA’s national park camping facilities, including the Buffalo Beach area to boost low-cost holiday opportunities.
In addition $3 million will be spent on scientific and conservation efforts around the Leschenault Inlet and estuary.
Mr Smith said the announcement was good news for the city but there was a “lack of definition” as to the location, what services would be expected and a timeframe for the office’s construction.
Bunbury has secured commitments from both major political parties to bring a Government department to the city.
Labor proposes to relocate the Department of Regional Development and Lands to the CBD.
South West MLC Sally Talbot said the Liberal’s South West plans “paled in comparison” to Labor’s.
“It’s clear that Mr Barnett is playing catch up to Labor’s plan to move the Department of Regional Development to Bunbury, which will inject more than 240 jobs for the region, ” Dr Talbot said.
