JD Hardie plan gets nod of approval

A multimillion-dollar plan to transform a South Hedland youth centre into a multi-purpose venue has moved to the crucial costing and planning stage.

At an ordinary Town of Port Hedland meeting last week, Commissioner Fred Riebelling approved a motion to progress the project at the JD Hardie centre into its next phase.

The master plan includes several upgrades to the facilities including shaded multi-use courts and BMX pump tracks.

Proposed upgrades include a childcare centre to help ease long wait lists in the town.

Mr Riebelling said the centre would serve as an essential facility for community engagement and at-risk youth.

“Crucially, its core comm-unity engagement operations provide a safe space and friendly ear for marginalised young people in South Hedland,” he said.

“I look forward to seeing the detailed designs in the near future, and I look forward to updating the community on any developments prior to their commencement.”

Mr Riebeling said the master plan would serve as a guide as the process moved into the detailed design phase and once the next phase was finished.

He said the Town would be looking towards government for help with funding.

“We are committed to building it no matter what, but it will happen quicker if we can get government funding from the State, lotteries or Federal. I hope that those two arms of government would assist and will be disappointed if they don’t,” he said.

Mr Riebeling said the approval of the master plan was a significant step forward in continuing to improve youth services.

“Our Strategic Community Plan uncovered a local enthusiasm to ensure the JD Hardie remains a central hub of activity and support in the years ahead,” he said.

“The facility also serves as an important haven during times of extreme weather events, sheltering people from the impacts of tropical cyclones.”