WAPC approval eases future housing shortage

Published on Thursday, 28 January 2021 at 6:02:28 PM

The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) has approved the Town’s Athol Street and Stables Structure Plans, paving the way for the establishment of more residential lots in East Port Hedland over the next 10 years.

Developed in collaboration with DevelopmentWA, the Structure Plans contain a combined area of approximately 76 hectares in the East End of Port Hedland, bound by Athol Street, Cooke Point Road, Styles Road and Pretty Pool Creek.

In September 2020, Council supported the Structure Plans to proactively respond to Port Hedland’s housing shortage. A reduction in West End residential land and projected population growth necessitated de-constraining land in East Port Hedland.

WAPC’s approval cements the Town’s strategic planning framework for the area, which includes residential zoned land of low (R20) medium (R40) and high (R60) densities, a limited tourism/hospitality coastal node, public open space and an environmental conservation reserve (foreshore reserve).

Mayor Peter Carter said the approval was a key milestone for the Town’s strategic planning.

“I am pleased the WAPC has approved the Town’s Athol Street and Stables Structure Plans, giving the green light for more development to occur in East Port Hedland to ease Hedland’s housing shortage.

“Continued strength in the resources industry, WA’s resilience during COVID-19 and record public infrastructure investment are further indicators of strong population growth in the years ahead. It is crucial that development ready land is available for housing which supports this growth, giving residents across all industries and income levels access to housing choice.

“I’d like to thank all the stakeholders and community members who contributed to our Shaping Hedland’s Future consultation effort in recent years, providing invaluable insights towards the preparation of the Structure Plans. 

“WAPC’s approval of these Structure Plans means development sites for the area can progress to the detailed subdivision design stage, so I look forward to seeing how the area evolves in the years ahead.”

For media information:
Laura Hawes
Manager Corporate Affairs
(08) 9158 9365 | lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au

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