Chamber joins fight against marina plan

The Chamber of Minerals and Energy Western Australia has joined BHP Billiton in voicing its opposition to Hedland's Spoilbank marina and waterfront development.

CME chief executive Reg Howard-Smith said the resources industry remained opposed to the marina, despite Premier Colin Barnett recently making a $72 million Budget commitment to the project.

"It remains the view of industry the Spoilbank is not an appropriate location for the proposed marina development," he said.

Representing resources companies such as Fortescue Metals Group, Atlas Iron, Roy Hill and BHP Billiton Iron Ore, the CME has repeatedly expressed concern the marina development could interfere with operations at the nearby iron ore port.

Its continued opposition, however, comes despite government planners agreeing to a series of compromises, including a plan to restrict residential development not only on the Spoilbank site, but potentially throughout Port Hedland's entire West End.

Mr Howard-Smith said CME maintained support for the primacy of the port and remained concerned about the potential for future conflict over land use.

"Efficient and safe port infrastructure is a crucial component in ensuring Western Australia remains an attractive investment destination into the future," he said.