The $72.5 million Nelson Point Tug Haven upgrade project at the Port of Hedland is progressing with its second stage, with the contract for the construction of a new outer wall awarded.
Western Australian-based company TAMS Group has been granted the contract, with Pilbara-based businesses set to provide works valued at $3.25 million as part of the contract.
The Nelson Point Tug Haven was constructed in 1985, and over time has deteriorated due to the impacts of cyclones, and wear-and-tear from more powerful and larger tugboats mooring at the haven.
The new tug haven outer sheet pile wall will be designed to better withstand severe thunderstorms and cyclones, providing a safe and reliable asset for port users.
In addition to the new outer wall, the second stage of the project will also include the demolition of the existing outer wall and the installation of gangways and pontoons.
The first stage of the project to stabilise the tug haven revetments began in October 2021, and all upgrades to the tug haven are expected to be completed by mid-2024.
Western Australia Ports Minister, Rita Saffioti, said the Pilbara region continues to be the driving force for the state and national economies, and the ports are playing an integral role in delivering exports to the world.
“Given how critical our ports are, we need to make sure we grow and maintain the infrastructure, so that we continue to harness the economic opportunities that are available,” Ms Saffioti said.
“In 2022, tug boats guided more than 6,600 large vessels into and out of the Port of Port Hedland – which is why it is essential we provide fit-for-purpose infrastructure to safely house them.”
Member for Pilbara, Kevin Michel, said, “My focus is to ensure local businesses continue to see the benefit of the significant amount of investment being made in the Pilbara region – and this project is another great example.
“It’s brilliant that local businesses have the opportunity to work on major projects within the communities they live, reinjecting money back into the local economy.”
