Regional Development and Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said the draft Karratha Revitalisation Plan, a key component of the State Government’s ‘Pilbara Cities’ initiative, included strategies for the sustainable growth of Karratha and a Master Plan to redevelop the town centre.

“This document represents a watershed moment in Karratha’s history,” Mr Grylls said.

“Both the Shire of Roebourne and LandCorp 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 we stimulate the creation of more jobs in the region and encourage the conversion of fly-in/fly-out workers to become permanent residents.”

The Minister said the plan included improvements such 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 the issue of affordability, which is currently a significant constraint on growth,” he said.

Mr Grylls urged the people of Karratha to review the plan and have their say on the presented strategies.

“This is the first exciting step in the creation of a new improved Karratha that will deliver significant long term benefits to its people,” he said.

The plans can be viewed at http://www.roebourne.wa.gov.au or a copy can be obtained at the shire’s Welcome Road Administration Office. For more information, contact 9186 8569 or email karrathacityofthenorth@roebourne. wa.gov.au

Submissions must be lodged by 5pm April 21, 2010.