Albany Waterfront

A world-class waterfront redevelopment which will eventually see undeveloped foreshore overlooking the Princess Royal Harbour transformed into a vibrant hub of activity reconnecting this stunning location to the city.

Client
LandCorp – the Western Australia Government’s specialist land development agency – in partnership with the City of Albany, Department of Housing and Works, Great Southern Development Commission and Department of Planning and Infrastructure.

Scope of Work
The State Government has committed almost $30 million to the redevelopment of Albany’s waterfront in addition to $46.3 million it is spending on the construction of the Albany Entertainment Centre which will be located in the heart of the project.

The bold vision, set to completely rejuvenate this historic coastal city and important West Australian tourism destination includes a hotel, conference centre, cafes, restaurants, shops and a harbour ‘village’ containing commercial outlets and short-stay serviced apartments.

Challenges
Intensive liaison and communication with key project stakeholders, port-user groups and the general community is required to deliver a shared, achievable vision.

Developing next to a working harbour presents a range of economic, environmental and logistical hurdles.

Innovations and Solutions
A new breakwater will be constructed to create a safe harbour in which a floating marina will be installed.

Outcomes
The project will create a world-class waterfront development which integrates port activities, the town centre and the spectacular natural environment of Albany – in the Great Southern region of Western Australia – home to some of the world’s most beautiful, naturally protected waterways.

As part of the initial stage of the project, Benchmark has already overseen the design and construction of a 160m-span pedestrian bridge linking Albany’s CBD with the waterfront and promoting integration of civil and waterfront activities.

The project is forecast to generate $60 million in private investment and up to $400 million in economic activity for the Great Southern Region to 2020.