Ralphs Bay :: Recent Developments

Walker Corporation have recently proposed the construction of a bayside residential marina and canal development, "Lauderdale Quay", in the northeastern reaches of the bay, adjacent to the Lauderdale isthmus. This proposal has been subject to community consultation and has been opposed on environmental, aesthetic and health grounds by a number of parties, including the 'Save Ralphs Bay' community group.

Major environmental concerns have been raised with respect to the development of a conservation area which is environmentally sensitive and has significant estuarine ecological values.

The proposal is now before State Cabinet to determine whether it is approved as a 'Project of State Significance' (POSS). Should the proposal be accepted in principle, the Resource Planning and Development Commission (RPDC) will be charged with assessing and justifying the significant potential environmental risks, all of which have already been brought to the State Government's attention by their own Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment. (see Local Fauna)

Whilst the location may hold some immediate interest to interstate buyers who are not aware of the frequently inclement conditions, investment concerns may exist about potential public health issues – including the possibility of irreversible heavy metal pollution, potential leaching from the adjacent tip site and increased mosquito borne infection from canal water stasis; Ross River Fever is locally endemic. (see below for further information)

Fresh concerns have also been raised in the State of the Environment Report for Tasmania regarding higher sea levels and the increased frequency of storm events, resulting from global climate change. According to the report there is the potential for "flooding and permanent inundation of coastal low-lying areas" (see below for further information). This may also have implications for property insurance.

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