THE state government has launched two initiatives to make housing more affordable in the Pilbara, with the relocation of the Port Hedland wastewater treatment plant and the release of 47 hectares of South Hedland land for worker and indigenous housing.
Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said relocating the wastewater treatment plant would free up a 75-hectare site, which could yield up to 2,500 new homes.
“There is no doubt that the relocation of the Port Hedland wastewater treatment plant will, within a relatively short timeframe, open up a major new housing estate,” Mr Grylls said in a statement.
“This project should have a lasting impact on the cost of housing in the area and the new development is consistent with the State Government's Pilbara Cities framework."
The Port Hedland wastewater treatment facility will be combined with the South Hedland wastewater treatment plant, which is slated to undergo a significant upgrade. The estimated cost of combining the facilities would be $106 million.
Mr Grylls also announced Foundation Housing, YMCA of Perth and Youth Involvement Council as the preferred proponents to develop 47ha of land for affordable housing in South Hedland.
Mr Grylls said the land release was aimed to help not-for-profit organisations that have had trouble attracting and retaining staff due to high costs of accommodation.
