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New viilage to ease Karratha accomodation stress

Big projects increasing demand

With accommodation in the north of Western Australia still a major concern for the mining and resources projects powering ahead, a new short term workers camp could ease the load a little.

The MAC Services Group is the preferred proponent to build and manage a workers’ accommodation facility on a 12 hectare site at Gap Ridge.

Western Australian Regional Development and Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said the accommodation would help meet the high demand for housing for people moving into the town to work on the many new projects going ahead in the area.

The State Government has approved of a MAC proposal for a 1,180-bed accommodation camp with facilities including a pool, gym and outdoor social areas.

“The proposal is for a modern design that will provide an attractive option for workers’ accommodation in Karratha,” he said.

“The village lay-out will consist of high-class, environmentally sustainable apartments that will pass the test of time.

“The MAC has a successful track record in building and managing accommodation facilities, currently managing six accommodation sites with approximately 5,000 beds and associated facilities in remote areas of Australia.

“It is proposed to carry out the project in four stages, with Stage 1 delivering 200 beds, which will help ease the immediate demand for accommodation in Karratha.”

The Department of Regional Development and Lands called for expressions of interest for the project late last year. Eight companies submitted proposals to build and manage the accommodation facility.

Mr Grylls said substantial development and short-term worker accommodation was urgently needed and the high demand for quality accommodation often made it difficult for people to secure a place to live.

“Karratha is a thriving town at the centre of the state’s iron ore and gas industries. Demand for accommodation is high, especially for construction personnel working on projects to deliver land, housing and other facilities in the town,” he said.

He said 30 per cent of the accommodation at Gap Ridge will be for these construction workers.

A contract is expected to be finalised in the next month.