The South Hedland Town Centre Revitalisation is set to increase significantly in scope thanks to an allocation of $53.94million through the State Government's Royalties for Regions funding in the 2011-12 State Budget.
Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said in addition to $23million already secured for Stage 1, the extra money will mean LandCorp and the Town of Port Hedland can now commence Stage 2 in late 2011.
"This will see vacant land in the heart of the town transformed into seven medium density commercial and residential lots which will improve social amenity in South Hedland as part of the Pilbara Cities vision," Mr Grylls said.
"Across the next two years we will unlock land currently sitting vacant in the centre of town for a range of purposes including a new library, council offices and an expansion of the aquatic centre.
"We will also open up land for a dedicated entertainment precinct which could feature a cinema; restaurants; cafes; bar; and boutique shops.
"This is all about making South Hedland a place where people want to live, work and raise a family - a place where people have a wide choice in housing and a whole range of leisure options."
The Minister said the initiative would attract new investors to the town and provide more housing choice with a further 750 dwellings.
"Private developers will have access to a total of 100 hectares and apart from mixed use commercial and residential land, we are also looking at the possibility of a hotel or short stay accommodation." he said.
Designed to complement works nearing completion in Stage 1, additional works include sewerage infrastructure; landscaping; drainage and an interconnected road network.
Due to be completed by September 2011, Stage 1 was funded by $23.1million from Royalties for Regions and features a realigned main street; a new town square with amphitheatre; a shaded market walk; water play area and public art; plus three mixed use sites, providing a diversity of residential and commercial opportunities.
Minister's office - 9213 7000
