Controversial desalination plant plans scrapped, as Labor joins Libs and Nats in ruling out King George Sound

Plans to install a desalination plant in Albany’s King George Sound have been scrapped with all three major political parties committing to canning the idea.

WA Premier Roger Cook said on Thursday that he could “guarantee” WA Labor would not construct a desal plant at the Frenchman Bay location proposed by Water Corp in its future water source planning for the region.

“Securing additional water supply for Albany is absolutely vital for the long-term sustainability of this community, but that can’t come at the expense of Albany’s unique and pristine environment,” he said.

The decision comes after months of advocacy from the local community — including the tourism, fishing and aquaculture industries and local residents — with the Albany City Council passing a motion in December asking Water Corp to investigate alternative sites.

“Sustainable water resources are vital for the future of our growing region, and while council supports desalination to secure the Great Southern’s water supply, it must be done in a location that is appropriate, which is not Frenchman Bay,” mayor Greg Stocks said.

“I applaud our community for their passionate advocacy and thank the council for standing with them to achieve the best outcome for Albany.”

Protesters’ primary concern was the briny effluent that would be deposited in the Frenchman Bay basin, potentially harming its delicate ecosystem and the local industries that rely on it.

Save our Sound Albany convenor Jan Pickles said the group was “completely overwhelmed” to learn the plans for the “ill-conceived and potentially disastrous” location were off the table.

“It is a great relief that King George Sound will not be used as a site for an industrial plant and that this uniquely rich and incredibly beautiful marine environment will be protected,” she said.

“If desalination is the answer to Albany’s water supply issues, then we hope that a safer and more appropriate site can be found.”

Liberal candidate and city councillor Thomas Brough, who voiced his opposition to the desal plant in December last year, applauded the community for its advocacy.

“Albany is standing up, and that’s why we’re seeing results. It’s great to see the community’s voice being heard loud and clear,” he said.

“Albany led, and Labor only followed when they realised the votes were slipping away.”

Nationals candidate Scott Leary also questioned the timing and said he had “wholeheartedly opposed” the plan for months.

“The people of Albany deserve to know exactly where Labor plans to build this desal plant and how they will secure our town’s future water supply,” he said.

The Premier thanked Albany MLA Rebecca Stephens for her advocacy on behalf of the community.

“I’ve heard the concerns from my local community and this commitment today means WA Labor will protect King George Sound,” Ms Stephens said.

A Water Corporation spokesperson said they remain “fully committed” to finding a new long-term drinking water source for the Great Southern by 2039-30 with a decision likely to come later this year.