PICKERING -- Plans to transform Pickering's Frenchman's Bay into a tourist destination has attracted attention at Queen's Park.

Proposals for improvements to the Frenchman's Bay Harbour entrance have been in the works since 2005, when the area was first identified as a priority for the city. Improvements would include constructing a new breakwater and implementing a dredging program to reduce navigational difficulties caused by heavy siltation. The project would also develop the area as a tourist destination by improving public amenities, waterfront access and trails.

"It's a long-standing desire of the City to complete this project," said Pickering Mayor Dave Ryan.

"It's essentially shovel-ready and there's been a lot of work already. A breakwater would make this a destination, it would be fully accessible for people who want to go out and enjoy it as a viewpoint or for fishing. This project would increase accessibility of the waterfront and its desirability as a destination."

A suggestion that the Ministry of Infrastructure look at financially supporting the long-gestating project was brought up by Pickering-Scarborough East MPP Tracy MacCharles in the legislature on Dec. 8.

While the motion does not equal a promise for funding, it invites the ministry to review the project. Mayor Ryan said it is welcome because it will help to raise awareness of the plan for the bay.

"We're well aware this does not translate directly to funding but we think it's a good first step," he explained. "It's certainly raised the profile of the project and the fact that it obtained unanimous support is significant."

The motion was passed unanimously, with MPPs from across Durham, and from differing parties, voicing support. Among those voices stating support were Liberal MPP Joe Dickson and Conservative MPP Christine Elliot, both of Durham Region. Ms. MacCharles, who tabled the private member's motion stating that the Ontario Ministry of Infrastructure should explore the feasibility of supporting the project, called it a win for the area.

"This project is appealing because, one, it's ready to go, but there's also so many potential benefits not just for Pickering but for all of the region and even the province," Ms. MacCharles said.

"I call it a win-win-win because it addresses safety, there are economic benefits through job creation and it will also increase tourism and boost commercial interests. There's so many benefits."

The planned harbour entrance improvements are part of a larger waterfront plan. An environmental assessment was completed in 2007 and in 2008 Pickering partnered with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to undertake the work. The City is currently seeking a funding commitment from upper-tier levels of government in order to proceed with the project, which would head directly into the construction stage once funding is secured.