Published on Tuesday, 22 July 2014 at 12:00:00 AM
The shortage of staff housing in Onslow is likely to be eased, with the Shire of Ashburton giving their in-principle support for a proposed joint venture between the Shire and the Department of Housing.
The proposal will see vacant reserves on Third Avenue developed for staff housing and Service Workers accommodation.
Council gave its approval at the July council meeting to progress towards negotiating the financial terms, project management arrangements and design concepts of the proposed joint development partnership.
It is currently proposed that the Department of Housing project manage the joint development to lessen the project costs and risks to the Shire.
In considering the joint venture, Shire President Kerry White stated that the proposal would continue to be looked at as part of the bigger picture for Onslow. “The partnership with the Department of Housing is being considered in the overall context of the urban renewal vision for Onslow,” said Cr White.
“This development must set a high standard for future developments in the area. The Department of Housing has given us their assurance that our design requirements will be adhered to, particularly the need for family style dwellings.”
The proposal has received the support of the Shire of Ashburton Steering Group Committee, which is made up of senior management representatives of the Department of Lands, the Pilbara Development Commission, the Department of Housing, LandCorp, as well as the Shire of Ashburton. The proposal has also received the internal support of the General Manager of the Department of Housing.
Support is also expected from current tenants of the Discovery Parks Service Worker Intervention chalets, who will be able to transition into more permanent accommodation. “In addition, this increase in the number of staff accommodation will support small to medium businesses in Onslow,” noted Cr White.
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