Published on Tuesday, 9 September 2025 at 2:56:49 PM
Media Release
At a Special Council Meeting this week, the Shire of Carnarvon took major steps toward revitalising key infrastructure and boosting liveability and economic growth, allocating the $15.5 Million Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (RPPP) funding package and endorsing the start of the Tramway Bridge reinstatement as part of the funding package.
Tramway Bridge Reinstatement Underway
Council formally accepted and authorised the negotiation of a design and construction contract with Ventia for Stage One of the Tramway Bridge reinstatement. With up to $3.7 million allocated from the RPPP grant, as part of the broader Tramway Walk Trail project, this initial stage will focus on reinstating the first section of the bridge structure from Town Beach, laying the groundwork for potential future works, including the restoration of the most damaged section, subject to additional funding.
Stage One includes detailed design, construction, and asset management preparation, with works anticipated to begin following Council’s final endorsement of the design. The bridge, which once connected the Carnarvon town centre to Babbage Island and the heritage precinct, has been closed due to structural deterioration.
Shire President Eddie Smith said,
“This is about restoring a vital community link and protecting a key piece of Carnarvon’s heritage. We're not just rebuilding a bridge, we're starting the process of reconnecting our town and heritage precinct. Thereby strengthening the future of tourism in our Shire.”
$8M RPPP Investment to Boost Housing and Economy
The Council also endorsed the allocation of $8 Million (52% of the total grant) from the RPPP package to support the Pier Development, a significant private-sector investment set to deliver 36 build-to-rent dwellings and 20 build to sell/short stay dwellings (56), a bar/bistro, boat pens, and waterfront amenities. The Shire will enter into a performance-based funding agreement with strict conditions to ensure delivery milestones are met.
Cr Smith said the Council is strongly supportive of the project:
“The Pier Development is a transformational investment for Carnarvon. It will deliver much-needed housing and accommodation, unlock our waterfront, and support population attraction and retention, all critical for a vibrant and sustainable regional economy.”
Remaining $7.5M to Improve Liveability
In addition to the Pier Development funding allocation, the remaining $7.55 million of the RPPP funding will be distributed across five major community-led projects:
- Van Dongen Park Stage Two upgrades
- Urban Forest and Orchard canopy planting
- Connect & Create local art and lighting trails
- Tramway Walk Trail Stage Two including the initial stage of the Tramway Bridge and cultural interpretive works
- Fascine-to-Harbour pedestrian link
President Smith emphasised the broader community benefit of the funding:
“This is not just investment in infrastructure, it's investment in people. These projects will improve how we move, connect, celebrate, and live together as a community.”
The Shire expects all RPPP projects to be delivered over a two-year period, with completion targeted for 2027.
ENDS
*image is a concept only and subject to change
For media enquiries, please contact:
Eddie Smith
President
Shire of Carnarvon
3 Francis St, Carnarvon WA 6701
08 9941 0000 I cr.esmith@carnarvon.wa.gov.au
Mandy Dexter
Chief Executive Officer
Shire of Carnarvon
3 Francis St, Carnarvon WA 6701
08 9941 0000 I dexter.a@carnarvon.wa.gov.au
Giana Covella
Strategic Communication and Economic Development Manager
Phone: (08) 9941 0000 | Email: media@carnarvon.wa.gov.au
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