Shipping development works permit approved

CONSTRUCTION can now commence on infrastructure associate with the Cairns Shipping Development Project (CSDP), following the granting of an Operational Works Permit by Cairns Regional Council.

The Shipping Development Standing Committee today provided its final approval for the long-awaited project.

Mayor Bob Manning said all approvals for the construction of pipes and pumps to support dredging operations had now been granted.

“The approvals are in place for all of the infrastructure that is needed for dredging to occur,” Cr Manning said.

“That includes the pump-out facility at Yorkeys Knob and an 8km pipeline to the storage facility on the Barron Delta.

“It’s the final approval required from Council, but we will continue to oversee parts of the project and we’ll work closely with Ports North and the Queensland Government to bring this important project to fruition.”

Cr Manning said the CSDP was identified in the Cairns 2050 Shared Vision.

“When completed, it will enable ships of up to 300 metres in length to dock at our port,” he said. “That opens up a range of new opportunities to tap further into the cruising industry and will allow for future expansion of HMAS Cairns.

“We now look forward to seeing the project progress in a timely manner for the benefit of the Cairns region.”