South Hedland community members should sustain long term benefits from the future development of two residential sites in the town which are aimed to provide additional permanent and temporary accommodation for local residents and workers.
Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said providing a combination of temporary and permanent accommodation would not only address the current short-term and long-term demand but also attract the fly-in fly-out workforce and encourage a more sustainable regional community.
"This is an exciting development opportunity for the people of South Hedland and I share their enthusiasm," Mr Grylls said.
The Minister said two proponents had been selected as the preferred developers, after the expression of interest process closed.
West End Integration Project consortium which comprises the Compass Group, (Nomad and Hatch) will undertake the land development of temporary workers accommodation, behind the existing Pilbara TAFE building on the north side of town.
AuzCorp will use the land west of the Pilbara TAFE building to create a residential area with both temporary and permanent accommodation.
"The preferred proponents presented a positive, realistic and well balanced approach to the development which demonstrates their confidence in the future of South Hedland," Mr Grylls said.
"Once fully developed, both sites will provide infrastructure such as roads, water, sewer, power and improve road connectivity, allowing residents to enjoy more facilities with their families and friends.
"The proposed development will include quality work accommodation, residential development and upgrades of community facilities."
The Minister said the initiative showed a commitment by the State and local government's ensuring Crown land is developed effectively, and will benefit the broader community during the life of the development and thereafter.
Tender submissions were received and assessed by a selection panel with representatives from the Town of Port Hedland, LandCorp and the Department for Planning and Infrastructure.
"The Department for Planning and Infrastructure's, State Land Service team and LandCorp have worked hard in the last seven months to ensure the land could be made available for this valuable facility," Mr Grylls said.
"I would like to personally thank the Town of Port Hedland for its commitment and support in this project, as well as the Pilbara TAFE, which released the land for both sites."
The Minister said the Town of Port Hedland was delighted to hear that the project was progressing and soon be able to provide essential accommodation for temporary workers and permanent community members.
"During the next stage of the process, the panel and the proposed developers will work together to finalise the concept plans to enable commencement of the development," Mr Grylls said.
Minister's office - 9213 7000
