Hepburn Heights lots ready for sale in New Year

Lots created in the first stage of LandCorp's Hepburn Heights subdivision are expected to be ready for sale to the public by the end of January next year.

Lands Minister David Smith said today that about 60 per cent of the 93 first stage lots would be reserved for sale only to first home buyers.

Homeswest was expected to develop some of the remaining lots as rental housing and the balance would be available for sale to the general public.

"The first home owner lots will be available to people with a combined household weekly income not exceeding $800," Mr Smith said.

"These buyers will be required to build a house on the land and they will not be able to re-sell the property for at least five years.

"This is in line with the Government's policy for as many people as possible to have the chance to own their own homes."

Mr Smith said that 116 blocks in the subdivision's second stage would be ready for sale in late March.

The Hepburn Heights development would eventually provide 310 residential lots ranging in size from 450 to 600 square metres.

The planning also provided for Homeswest rental accommodation for aged persons in two group housing projects.

Another two group housing sites would offer units for sale to people aged 55 years and over under Homeswest's 'Wise Choice' scheme.

The Minister also announced today that a committee would recommend strategies to him for the future management of the remnant bushland conservation area of 18.5 hectares at Hepburn Heights.

"This conservation area will be permanently protected as part of the Hepburn Heights development," Mr Smith said.

"The committee to advise on its management will be chaired by the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board's administrator, Mr Peter MacLean.

"The Cemeteries Board is responsible for the adjoining Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park.

"Other committee members include Wanneroo Councillor Norma Rundle, local environment supporter Mr David Wake, a representative of the Hepburn Woodlands Preservation Group, and environmental scientist Dr Paul van der Moezel."

Mr Smith said numerous groups had expressed interest in an area of 9.7 hectares of land set aside for community purposes.

They included religious and education groups, services clubs, child care centre operators, the WA Fire Brigade and the Police Department.

Another committee chaired by a member of the Minister's office would oversee the allocation of this land.

Areas had also been set aside for medical services, shops and a service station.