Landmark plan for Karratha’s future growth now available for comment, Grylls.
Author: Brendon Grylls
Published on: 10-March-2010
A bold new plan to grow Karratha into a major city of 50,000 people has been developed by the Liberal/National Government and the Shire of Roebourne, and is now available for public comment.
Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said the draft Karratha Revitalisation Plan, a key component of the State Government’s “Pilbara Cities” initiative, includes strategies for the sustainable growth of Karratha, and a Master Plan to redevelop the town centre.
“This document represents a watershed moment in the history of Karratha,” Mr Grylls said.
“Both Landcorp and the Shire have worked in close collaboration with the community to produce an ambitious yet obtainable vision for the future of the town.”
“This vision includes developing a modern vibrant city of the north, with a diverse economy and high amenity, but still maintaining a unique Pilbara character.”
“It is critical that we stimulate the creation of more jobs in region and encourage the conversion of fly in fly out workers to become permanent residents.”
Mr Grylls said the plan includes such improvements as the development of an entertainment precinct within the town with cafes, restaurants, public plazas, well shaded and landscaped streets and a variety of retail options.
“It also provides an outline of future residential expansion and the creation of new district centres to accommodate the expected population growth.”
“The goal is to encourage greater housing diversity in the town to address this issue of affordability which currently is a significant constraint on growth.”
Mr Grylls urged the people of Karratha to review the plan and have their say on the strategies presented.
“This is the first exciting step in the creation of a new improved Karratha that will deliver significant long term benefits to its people.”
“This can only happen if the people themselves get involved.”
Media Fact Sheet
- As part of the State Government ‘Pilbara Cities’ initiative, Karratha is undergoing a radical transformation, evolving from a Mining Town with an estimated population of 18,000 into a significant Regional City of 50,000 people.
- Planning is essential to ensuring future growth is appropriately managed so that Karratha can develop as a City with a diverse and resilient population and economy, which promotes sustainability, high amenity and a unique Pilbara style.
- The Karratha City Wide Growth Plan, the Karratha City Centre Master Plan and the Implementation Plan together form the “blueprint” for the revitalisation of Karratha.
- Together, these plans collectively will guide the development of future housing, open spaces, commercial activities, tourist accommodation, entertainment and retail areas, as well as service infrastructure, transport, education and community facilities.
- The private sector will be a critical partner, bringing additional expertise, enthusiasm and investment to build Karratha.
