MELBOURNE PORT CAPACITY PROJECT UNDER WAY

Construction on Melbourne’s Port Capacity Project’s $23m buffer package is well under way with the entire buffer zone around Webb Dock forecast for completion mid-2015.

Victoria’s Minister for Ports, David Hodgett and Liberal candidate for Albert Park, Shannon Eeles, inspected the works at Webb Dock recently. “The Port Capacity Project’s buffer works is an important zone that separates the commercial and industrial operations from the surrounding suburbs of Williamstown, Port Melbourne, Fishermans Bend, Garden City and Beacon Cove,” said Mr Hodgett. The minister added that the vision for the zone was to create a continuous linear park around Webb Dock that allows for port work to continue while delivering recreational benefits to neighbouring areas. Concepts for the works were presented to the local community in April 2012 and since then the buffer designs have evolved and been refined, incorporating many of the ideas from local residents.  The new terminals will operate under strict noise limits and the new container terminal’s automated equipment also means that the terminal will operate under low levels of light. The buffer zone around Webb Dock is being funded by the Port of Melbourne Corporation and the operators of the new terminals.