State releases more land in Karratha

The state government has released 81 residential lots in Karratha to the public with a further 157 lots allocated to native title parties, resource companies and government agencies.

The 81 residential lots, ranging from 409 square metres to 811sqm are priced from $160,000 to $242,000, and will be sold by public ballot on February 22.

Planning and infrastructure minister Alannah MacTiernan said the release was part of an ongoing strategy to meet the land and accommodation needs of Karratha.

"On top of the 350 residential lots released to date through both the Nickol West and Tambrey Estates, a further 800 lots are planned for release over approximately the next two years, subject to demand.

"There are also other land developments under way or planned, relating to temporary worker accommodation, commercial opportunities and light industrial lots.

"Along with measures to attract additional building capacity to the Pilbara, this strategy will enable the region to optimise the benefits from the resource-induced growth opportunities."

North West Coastal MLA Fred Riebeling said the ballot would give preference to local residents, employees of local businesses and employers intending to house staff in Karratha.

Ballots must be submitted by 4pm on February 19 and successful purchasers will be announced at a ballot draw conducted by the Western Australian Electoral Commission at 8am on Friday, February 22, at the Tambrey Tavern and Function Centre, Tambrey Drive, Karratha.

In addition to the public ballot, the state government has also pre-allocated a total of 136 lots at Nickol West to Woodside, Rio Tinto and Burrup Fertilisers.

In the Nickol West development for display homes, 12 lots have also been set aside to demonstrate sustainable development and best practices in housing suitable for the Pilbara.

Development conditions apply to the lots to be released at Nickol West, requiring purchasers to build within 30 months of settlement.