Town revitalisation leads new era for Hedland

Major works have commenced at South Hedland as part of the State Government's $23million revitalisation of the town centre.

The State Government's new 'Pilbara Cities' vision aims to transform Port Hedland as a future city.

Visiting South Hedland today, Premier Colin Barnett and Regional Development and Lands Minister Brendon Grylls unveiled the final South Hedland town square concept, a direct result of months of extensive community consultation.

"The community pooled their ideas to help create a new town square to have a positive impact on lifestyle, safety and facilities for residents and visitors to the town," Mr Barnett said.

The new town square includes a retail and cafe strip; shade structures; a grassed amphitheatre-style multi-use event space; a water-play area; public artworks; and lighting to increase community safety.

Mr Barnett said South Hedland's revitalisation would provide a boost to local businesses and could ultimately become a blueprint for upgrades to other regional town centres.

"With up to 600 dwellings, the South Hedland redevelopment will ultimately provide a better lifestyle and much-improved environment for the growing number of families settling permanently in the region," he said.

Bulk earthworks had commenced for the first stage of the project, with land to be made available for up to 130 townhouses and apartments plus commercial, medical and retail space.  Civil construction was expected to be completed in October 2010.

The State Government also revealed concept plans for a new marina and mixed-use tourism precinct at Port Hedland.

The $70million project would create space for 143 recreational boat pens and berths for 10 tug boats.

Mr Grylls said land south of the Pilbara TAFE building had been set aside for approximately 400 temporary and permanent dwellings, with works anticipated to commence in the first quarter of 2010.

Signing a Development Lease contract with AuzCorp, which would create the workers accommodation, Mr Grylls said the new dwellings would help alleviate the accommodation pressures associated with the fly-in, fly-out workforce.

The Minister said the Government was also actively seeking ways to maximise skills and job opportunities for indigenous people under the Royalties for Regions Pilbara Revitalisation plan and Pilbara Cities vision.

Premier's office: 9222 9475

Lands Minister's office: 9213 7000