State to release more Port Hedland lots

Housing and works minister Michelle Roberts said a land release in South Hedland would provide a much-needed boost for housing in the region and re-vitalise the North-West town.

The minister said the state government would release 35 lots on December 13 by public ballot as part of the South Hedland Urban Renewal Project.

The project involves the refurbishment and revitalisation of public housing and its surrounds and aims to create a more attractive living environment by reducing the concentration of social housing to create a more diversified community.

Jaxon is the project's project manager, on behalf of the Department of Housing and Works.

"The project also provides opportunities for home ownership for first home buyers, other owner occupiers and public housing tenants in South Hedland," Mrs Roberts said.

"First home buyers will be given preference to half the lots being released by public ballot to maximise their chance of buying their own homes.

"Working in partnership with the Town of Port Hedland, the State Government will spend more than $50 million over five years to improve community infrastructure, streetscapes and amenities in South Hedland.

"At this stage, 83 lots have been completed, with 35 to be sold to the public, giving homebuyers another opportunity to secure affordable land in the region."

A total of fifteen lots will be retained by the department for its public housing construction program and the remaining 33 lots will be allocated to Hedland First National and Fortescue Metals Group, enabling resource industry employees and their families to live locally.

Central Kimberley-Pilbara MLA Tom Stephens said FMG planned to build a permanent workforce in the Pilbara.

"FMG locating a large workforce in Port and South Hedland is a positive step in this direction," Mr Stephens said.

Mrs Roberts said there was a huge demand for land to build more homes due to the current resources industry boom in the Pilbara.

"The state government will continue its program of developing approximately 455 lots spread over various subdivisions during 2008, subject to ongoing demand," she said.

The minister said the Government recognised that quality, local housing was an important part of the revitalisation of South Hedland so that workers and their families could choose to live and become part of this important regional centre.