LandCorp and the Department of State Development have today released the final Strategy Plan for the Kemerton Industrial Park (KIP) located in the heart of the State’s South West.

LandCorp Business Manager Industrial John Hackett said the Plan, to guide future development of the KIP, builds on more than 20 years of research and studies, as well as comprehensive community consultation.

“This development blueprint will ensure the KIP can reach its full potential as a world-class industrial estate and deliver optimum community, economic and environmental outcomes,” Mr Hackett said.

Key changes to the KIP Strategy Plan, following feedback from the local community and stakeholders, include:
• Extension of a significant wetland east of the core industry area in the external buffer
• No development within 100m of conservation category wetlands
• More efficient rail layout
• No provision for livestock sale-yards or an animal products processing precinct

Key recommendations of the Strategy are as follows:
• The preparation of a Local Water Management Strategy, integrating modern sustainable drainage principles with waste water disposal solutions
• Environmental monitoring and buffer management by the KIP Coordinating Committee
• Vegetation, wetlands and rivers linked through conservation corridors
• Highest impact industries located in the centre of the core industry area

Mr Hackett said the Strategy Plan outlined four types of industry suited to the KIP – high technology, power generation, chemical and resource processing and downstream processing.

“Companies wanting to locate at KIP will have to adhere to strict application and approval processes with an emphasis on the environment and safety,” he said.

The KIP Strategy Plan was prepared with input from LandCorp, the Department of State
Development, the Shire of Harvey and a range of State Government water, health and environment agencies.

Mr Hackett said that that through the HUIL (Heavy Use Industrial Land Strategy) funds are now available for the Plan to be the catalyst for further detailed environment and heritage studies and air, noise and risk modelling.

“Next steps will also involve amending the Shire of Harvey District Planning Scheme and preparing a Structure Plan,” he said.

More details on the KIP Strategy Plan can be found at www.kemerton.com.au.