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The $230 million project will create a surge of economic activity in the Eyre Peninsula region through the injection of construction employment and flow-on effects for local businesses.

150 jobs will be created during construction and an operational workforce of up to 30 people will continue into the future.

Minister for Planning and Local Government, Vickie Chapman said the Marshall Liberal Government was keen to start moving on these types of infrastructure projects as quickly as possible, given the economic benefits it will create for the State.

“The Marshall Liberal Government is working hard to get these types of projects underway as soon as possible to ensure we navigate our way out of the current economic climate.

“Peninsula Ports’ modified proposal has been through the rigorous major development assessment process to amend and update the original Public Environmental Report (PER), and I’m pleased this is one of the first major developments I have been able to tick off as the new Minister.

“When completed, Port Spencer will enable large Panamax-sized vessels to be loaded and provide commercial benefits to the local grain industry through reduced transport costs, less double-handling of grain and increased market competition that could lead to improved prices offered to growers,” Ms Chapman said.

“The development approval that has been issued is subject to a comprehensive set of conditions to ensure construction and operation of the port facility proceeds in an orderly fashion and in a manner which minimises impacts.

“Before construction starts Peninsula Ports is required to provide final plans for all structures, along with the associated management and financial arrangements necessary to minimise impacts on the coastal and marine environment, and upgrade of the access road to the site from the Lincoln Highway.

The development approval of this significant infrastructure project provides for on-site works to commence within two years and completion within five years.