In Brief: New lots at Port Hedland

THREE new land development opportunities have been announced for Port Hedland as part of the state’s accelerated land release program in the Pilbara. The release should result in 76 single lots and two group housing sites, altogether producing more than 150 dwellings. Of these lots, 35 will be released by public ballot in August, the state government said. The other lots will be allocated to government agencies and resource companies to house key employees. The group housing lots sold to developers. The government also announced that planning and environmental approvals had now been obtained for the next stage of the Pretty Pool residential estate. LandCorp would seek tenders to develop up to 60 medium-density dwellings, together with retail and commercial spaces in the first stage of the Pretty Pool estate. “We are looking to provide a wider choice of housing types in Hedland on a site that offers mangrove and ocean views and will be part of a community that offers exceptional lifestyle with quality landscaping and public facilities,” Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said in a statement. “The successful developer will be chosen not just on price, but also on design quality including the incorporation of energy and water efficiency.” The news comes amid increasing development in other north-west housing and accommodation hotspots. Karratha has approved a $100 million, 150- unit resort-style development and a nine-storey residential development – both of which are designed to cater for the transitory workforce drawn to the Pilbara by the mining and construction boom.