Improvement scheme signals new era for Port Hedland’s

  • New improvement scheme defines future land uses for Port Hedland’s West End
  • Planning controls in line with Port Hedland Dust Management Taskforce recommendations
  • Scheme provides for revitalisation of historic West End precinct
  • McGowan Government delivering on Plan for the Pilbara  
  • A new improvement scheme designed to transition future residential development away from Port Hedland’s busy working port has been gazetted today by the McGowan Government.

    The improvement scheme, released for public comment earlier this year, considered physical, economic, social and environmental factors to determine future land uses for Port Hedland’s historic West End precinct.

    It contains measures to prevent the future development of what are considered ‘sensitive land uses’ including new housing, aged care, child care and hospitals.

    In guiding future planning for the area, the improvement scheme encourages investment and redevelopment to revitalise the West End in a way that reflects its iconic location and marine heritage.

    Under an improvement scheme, the Western Australian Planning Commission assumes planning authority for an identified area where there are circumstances of high complexity, land use conflict and State significance.

    As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:

    “We have been engaging with the Port Hedland community, landowners, industry and businesses for a number of years to put plans in place to protect the future of this special regional centre.

    “The Port Hedland West End Improvement Scheme performs two crucial functions – it positions the West End for renewal while also discouraging longer term residential settlement in the area.

    “In responding to the recommendations of the dust management taskforce, we have developed a scheme that fairly balances protecting the most vulnerable with creating opportunities for a range of new business ventures in the West End.”

    As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:

    “The town of Port Hedland makes a significant economic contribution to the State every year and is a special place that is much loved by local residents.

    “We want to ensure the vitality of the town in the future and support local residents, particularly those in the West End precinct, to make informed choices about their future livelihood.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.