The City of Karratha is inviting public comment on a development proposal to deliver 116 apartments in Bulgarra.
This proposal, part of the City’s Housing Development Expression of Interest (Project Dorothy), aims to provide housing solutions on undeveloped, development-ready residential lands.
Although housing is not traditionally within the purview of Local Government, the City is taking a proactive approach to address the housing shortfall in line with its vision to become Australia’s most liveable regional city.
The draft business plan, endorsed by the Council, is now open for public feedback before a final investment decision is made. The proposal includes a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments on three lots in Bulgarra, aimed at reducing the City’s current critical housing shortage.
The proposal involves the City loaning development funds to the proponent, to be repaid with interest over a 20-year loan term.
The developments will be on City-owned freehold lots, with the City retaining ownership of the land. The proponent will operate the completed development for 20 years, after which control of the assets will revert to the City.
City of Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott said there is a critical need for additional housing in Karratha.
“Housing is the number one issue our community faces, and there has been little to no activity to generate new supply,” Cr Scott said.
“The City is focused on creating growth opportunities, whether by building homes on City-owned land or advocating for more development from State and Federal
Governments. These efforts are paying off—we recently secured $22.1 million through the Housing Support Program for the Mulataga development.”
Cr Scott said the Bulgarra proposal would support an under-supplied segment of the rental market.
“Our modelling indicates a current shortfall of 900 dwellings, and with major projects scheduled for completion over the next few years this shortfall could increase to 2000,” he said.
“These apartments are intended to accommodate the anticipated population growth of service and ancillary workers driven by these major industry projects commencing operations. The completed apartments would be managed by the proponent and supplied to the private rental market.
“A decision on whether to proceed with the project has not yet been made, and all community feedback will be considered before the Council makes a final investment decision.”
Community members can provide submissions regarding the business plan by visiting: https://whatwemakeit.karratha.wa.gov.au/bulgarra-apartment-development