Dampier residents air concerns about tourist park move as City of Karratha presses ahead with town masterplan

A move to build a tourist park next to a primary school has proven a sticking point with Dampier residents as the City of Karratha seeks to embark on a major overhaul to the ageing face of the town. About 50 people attended an information session last Wednesday night to view documents and air their concerns about the proposed 10-year Dampier master plan. City officers at the meeting stressed the community still had ample time to have input and would be closely involved in any developments. City of Karratha Mayor Peter Long said feedback to date had been largely positive. “Each individual project identified in the master plan will involve separate planning and consultation processes,” he said. “There has been some specific feedback around the proposed tourist park size and location and this along with all the other feedback collected will be incorporated into options that are presented to council. “The council wants to retain the distinctive feel of Dampier while also ensuring that there is enough vibrancy and activity in the town to support sustainable community facilities and local businesses.” Rumours at the Wednesday night meeting the existing caravan park could be turned into a workers’ camp were strongly denied. Council is expected to make a decision on the masterplan in June. Infographics at last week’s meetings suggesting preparation of draft structure plans were due to start in August, with final plans mooted to be ready in late September, were incorrect.