State Government, BHP $650k tackles dust in Port Hedland

A program launched to reduce the impacts of dust in downtown Port Hedland could be completed by early 2007, according to the State Government.

The Port Hedland Downtown Cleaning Program incorporates three specific projects to lessen the effect of dust in the townsite, including a specialised sweeper for the Town of Port Hedland, a program to remove accumulated dust from buildings and replace signage and funding to assist with the cost to extend the shade structures in Wedge Street.

Kimberley, Pilbara and Gascoyne Minister Jon Ford said the program would go a long way towards improving the town's image.

The Pilbara Development Commission is facilitating the program in a partnership with BHP Billiton and the Town of Port Hedland.

The State Government has committed $500,000 towards the program and this has been boosted by a contribution of $150,000 from BHP Billiton Iron Ore to extend the cleaning and signage project.

"It will result in a cleaner, more appealing town centre, which will be a positive outcome for the local community and visitors to the town," the Minister said.

The program is expected to be completed by early 2007.