Gascoyne Gateway chose the proposed site after a rigorous multi-criteria analysis of 10 sites, between Oakajee and the Pilbara. The proposed site was found to be the only suitable location for the multi- use marine infrastructure proposed, based on:
Gascoyne Gateway has suitable land to provide a baseline capability for facility construction and operations;
Access to adequate water with relatively low tidal range and low current within reasonable access to shoreside. Point Murat, for example, has good depth but is also restricted in operations by the current of 4-6 knots during spring tides. Further to the south of Exmouth Gulf, the available depth is quickly negated, requiring significant additional construction or dredging costs to achieve the same result;
Distance from Township allows for facility processes and undertakings to not impact residents or to impact Town Planning Strategies;
Proximity to an adequate supply of construction limestone from existing quarries to build the rock- based causeway. This limestone rock quarry lies 4.4km from the proposed site;
The Exmouth-Minilya Road lies against the perimeter of the facility with ease of access;
The adjacent Light Industrial Area allows access to local specialist contractors and services for the repair and maintenance of facility functions into the future and will contribute to increased activity and viability;
Access to already available water and power services for use during construction and until organic reticulated services are up and running; and,
Access to local population workforce – with approximately 60-80 full-time jobs anticipated.
