The design of a new causeway crossing at Bandy Creek in Esperance will minimise future damage to the nearby boat harbour and surrounding landscape in the event of a major flood similar to the one experienced in 2007.

Unveiling the concept plan today, Department for Planning and Infrastructure Manager of Regional Facilities Kim Davis said the remains of the old weir, which was damaged in the flood event, would be demolished and replaced with a durable concrete causeway designed to naturally disperse excessive flood water.

Mr Davis said agreement on the design of the new structure followed extensive consultation with relevant State authorities, the Shire of Esperance and traditional landowners.

"It also addresses the issues raised by the Esperance community following the flood," Mr Davis said.

In 2007 a severe storm resulted in more than 180mm of rain falling on Esperance in 24 hours and saw thousands of tonnes of sand deposited in the Department managed Bandy Creek boat harbour, trapping vessels in their pens and causing costly delays to commercial operators.

Mr Davis said the new low profile concrete causeway, incorporated 45 pipes positioned at the base of the structure to ensure tidal flushing and fish movement between the creek and the harbour and would have no adverse effect on the water level or quality of the Ramsar protected wetlands upstream.

"The new wider causeway will accommodate higher capacity flows and during flood events water will flow freely over the structure minimising water build up and the risk of erosion," Mr Davis said.

"The project will also see the adjacent river banks, which were significantly eroded in 2007, recontoured with rock protection at the base and upstream an area of creek bed will be excavated to form a sand trap to reduce sediment and the speed of water flowing towards the new causeway.

"Pedestrian access across the causeway will be provided with the design also catering for emergency and service vehicles."

People wanting more information or a copy of the conceptual design for the new causeway can visit www.dpi.wa.gov.au/bandycreekweir or contact the Department on 9216 8857.

A display showing the features of the new causeway and further information about the project will be available to the community at the Esperance Boulevard and Council Chambers in early March.

MEDIA CONTACT: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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