CONSTRUCTION on a ‘motel-like’ facility for at least 1,400 people will begin next year in a bid to meet Karratha’s demand for short-term accommodation, particularly for building workers.
The MAC Services Group Limited (The MAC), has been selected as the preferred proponent to construct the accommodation village on a 20ha site at Gap Ridge.
At least 40% of the units would be set aside for civil works contractors, builders and tradespeople working on residential developments in the town.
More than 340 residential lots have been added to the market in Karratha over the last 18 months, with more than 1,300 lots planned in total, all with development conditions requiring construction within a 30-month timeframe.
The MAC is an Australian company currently with more than 3,750 permanent rooms under ownership and management in the North Queensland coal fields.
Executive chairman Kevin Maloney said the MAC looked forward to working with LandCorp and Shire of Roebourne to finalise contract details.
“We hope to get rooms under construction by May so they can be available for occupancy before the end of 2008 and will alleviate the accommodation shortage in Karratha,” Maloney said.
“The Gap Ridge village will allow us to demonstrate the design and quality of a MAC village, combined with speed of supply.
“Our policy is to employ locals whenever possible and to provide training and employment opportunities so staff can advance their careers.”
For more information on LandCorp’s projects in the Pilbara, visit http://www.pilbara.landcorp.com.au