Cooee to Wynyard Coastal Pathway works set to start in Spring 2020

Published on 11 December 2019

A positive outcome is on the horizon for the Coastal Pathway after constructive discussions were held today between Burnie City and Waratah-Wynyard Council mayors and the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson MP. 

Work has been delayed on the Coastal Pathway section between Cooee and Wynyard due to Council seeking assurances from the State Government that it would not be liable for the potential cost burden of erosion of the Rail Corridor, including both current and future risks. 

Council believes that after today’s constructive discussions, that the State Government and councils are now in a position to work together to ensure the project can proceed. 

In addition to the good news surrounding the pathway - Burnie City Council Mayor Steve Kons said “The Minister has also undertaken to commence the transfer of the rail corridor from the Burnie Waterfront to West Park by the end of June 2020. 

“This will allow Council to complete the Waterfront Master Plan which has elements that have been on hold for many years due to the lack of access to the rail corridor.” 

“The Coastal Pathway is an important piece of infrastructure that not only connects Coastal communities but is a key part of the Wynyard Waterfront Master Plan,” Waratah-Wynyard Mayor Robby Walsh said. 

“This is a project the Waratah-Wynyard community wants to happen, so we welcome today’s meeting with the Minister and look forward to progressing the Pathway.” 

Works on the Coastal Pathway are expected to start in Spring 2020 once the rail corridor has been transferred to Council management.