Construction set to start at Gladstone foreshores precinct

Construction of a $45 million recreation area at Gladstone's Auckland Point foreshores precinct is set to commence with Hutchinson Builders assigned the stage one contract.

The Gladstone Ports Corporation's East Shores Precinct development, part of the Gladstone Coal Exporters Maritime Precinct, aims to transform the foreshore area into a family-friendly precinct. Funding for the project has come from the 18 companies behind the $4 billion Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal (WICET).

Designed by landscape architects, Urbis, stage one of the project includes the building of a waterside boardwalk, a water spray ground/splashpad, a maritime themed playground and car parking.

Future stages of the project will include a café, an interpretive and events centre and an outdoor amphitheatre for community events.

Introducing the development, Gladstone Ports Corporation Chief Executive Leo Zussino said the plan was to return to the area's historical uses, stating "people used to swim and fish in the area.

"It used to be a place where families could come and enjoy the harbor (and) we want to recreate that."

For more information go to www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/web/guest/east-shores-redevelopment

Article amended 27th March 2013.