A multi-faceted co-existence strategy for the port of Fremantle (Australia)

Fremantle is located at the mouth of the Swan River, around twenty kilometres from Perth. It is home to the state of Western Australia's largest working industrial port. As a vital economic player in a fast-growing city, it also has to coexist with the residential area close to the active port, and deal with complaints from local residents and businesses concerning noise and fears about the port's impact on property prices. To ensure sustainable future development and successful coexistence between the port and the city, the port of Fremantle has adopted a multi-faceted strategy. This strategy is based on the creation of buffer and transition zones, with the area split into three zones with possible urban uses based on risk levels and the potential impact of port activities. Legal arrangements have also been adopted to minimise the likelihood of successful lawsuits, along with specific legislation on the port's protection. This legislation recognises the port's right to exist on its current site, and that its activities do not constitute a nuisance provided appropriate control procedures are put in place.