Spoilbank Marina

Transforming Spoilbank Marina: the evolution of a vibrant waterfront in Port Hedland

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Following the official opening in November 2024, the Spoilbank Marina has transformed Port Hedland’s coast into a vibrant waterfront development with high-quality public spaces and linkages, providing the opportunity for passive and active forms of recreation and formal and informal events.

The Goal

The Spoilbank is a key location with unique potential. The project brings together the beauty of the coastline, a new marina, and its connection to the Old Town Centre. The goal was to create a vibrant marine and waterfront precinct, providing a welcoming space for the community and visitors while improving safety for recreational boaters.

Our Role

TBB has been instrumental in shaping the Spoilbank Marina project since 2013. Initial proposals explored various locations for a marina-based development in Port Hedland, ultimately identifying Spoilbank as the most viable option. TBB played a key role in developing the concept plan that informed the project’s Business Case.

In 2018, the Western Australian State Government committed to the Port Hedland Spoilbank Marina, assembling a consultant team—including TBB—to craft a masterplan and place plan. TBB subsequently prepared and secured development approval from the Joint Development Assessment Panel (JDAP) in 2020, working closely with the broader project team.

Project Challenges

A place-led approach, informed by extensive stakeholder engagement and community workshops, was critical to ensuring the success of the development. Key challenges  overcome included:

• Establishing a strong identity: The site, previously offering limited amenities beyond the Yacht Club, had the potential to become a vibrant, community-centered space.
• Enhancing connectivity: Extending foreshore pedestrian links was a priority to activate the beachfront and encourage outdoor activities.
• Community and stakeholder involvement: Engaging local stakeholders was essential to maximise economic and social benefits for the region.
• Navigating statutory planning complexities: Portions of the development fell outside the Town’s Local Planning Scheme, requiring strategic planning solutions. The master plan supported an application for exemption under the Public Works Act 1902 and guided the approvals process under the Pilbara Ports Authority Act.

The Outcome

The Concept Plan crafted by TBB and the consultant team, set the scene for transforming the Spoilbank into a vibrant waterfront development. The original plan was prepared  in 2013, and it resulted in development approval 7 years later.

TBB was also responsible for designing and facilitating an engagement strategy for the project involving stakeholder interviews, a vision, placemaking and design workshop and a Community Open Day to ensure community involvement and shared ownership. The Place Plan prepared by TBB further informed the development and provided a guide for the activation opportunities.

Officially opened in November 2024, the Spoilbank Marina features a four-lane recreational boat ramp, boat pens, fish cleaning facilities, jetty and a recreation and event space, marking a new era for the Pilbara community.