CITY CENTRE MASTER PLAN - Shire of Roebourne

CITY CENTRE 

MASTER PLAN 

KARRATHA CITY OF THE NORTH 

VOLUME 3

ii 

PROJECT MANAGERS - LANDCORP 

Susan Oosthuizen – Project Director 

Ryan Victa – Project Manager 

SHIRE OF ROEBOURNE 

Nicole Lockwood – Shire President 

Collene Longmore – Chief Executive Officer 

Joel Gajic – A/Executive Manager Development Services 

Simon Kot – Executive Manager Community Services 

Troy Davis – Executive Manager Technical Services 

SoR Peer Review - Mark Casserly of CCS Strategic Management 

Consultant Planner - Mike Allen of Mike Allen Planning 

CONSULTANT TEAM 

Town Planning and Urban Design – TPG Town Planning and Urban Design 

Community and Consultation – Creating Communities 

Economics - Pracsys 

Traffic – Transcore 

Engineering – Wood & Grieve 

Landscape Architecture – UDLA 

Environment/Sustainability – GHD 

Peer Review - Brian Curtis Pty Ltd 

Property Consultants – State Property Advisory 

For further details and information contact: Shire of Roebourne 

Shire of Roebourne Administration | Lot 1083 | Welcome Road | PO Box 219 | Karratha | WA 6714 | P 08 9186 8555 | F 08 9185 1626 | E sor@roebourne.wa.gov.au

PREMIER'S FOREWORD 

The release of this much anticipated plan is a 

watershed moment in the history of Karratha 

As a central component of the Government's 'Pilbara 

Cities' initiative to invest in our regional towns, this 

plan will radically transform Karratha from a mining 

town with an estimated population of 18,000 into a 

regional city of 50,000 people. 

The Pilbara is pivotal to the economy of our State and the nation and in 

recognition we have budgeted $846million over the next four years, bringing 

the State's commitment to the Pilbara through Royalties for Regions since 

2008 to $977million. 

Our ambitious plan is to revitalise the town and establish Karratha as a 

future dynamic and diverse city - a place with services and amenities which 

will attract and retain a broad range of people wanting to settle permanently 

in the region. 

This document is the culmination of much planning and input from the 

community,local businesses, industry and Government. 

Making this vision a reality requires continued planning, investment and 

coordination of many individuals and organisations. 

Together we can transform Karratha into a city with a diverse and resilient 

population and economy, with high amenity and a unique Pilbara style. 

Hon Colin Barnett MEc MLA 

Premier, Treasurer, Minister for State Development 

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND LANDS 

MINISTER'S FOREWORD 

With this bold new plan, the landscape of Karratha is 

set to evolve into a diverse and well-appointed place to 

live and work. 

Through Royalties for Regions we have committed to 

re-invest funds to thoroughly revitalise the town and 

establish a future city - not with superficial facelifts, 

but through the creation of liveable communities 

serviced by everything modern Australia expects. 

I firmly believe this project will unlock Karratha's full potential and will 

become a benchmark for other regional areas. 

Underpinning the plan is the essential need to address a co-ordinated 

approach to the delivery of infrastructure and community services and 

facilities, housing affordability and diversity, and other issues which until 

now have constrained development and deterred people from settling 

in Karratha. 

The community has shown great interest in the plans for Karratha's future 

and taken ownership of the project to actively drive change. 

The Government, the Shire of Roebourne, business and industry all have a 

vested interest in a successful outcome and are fully committed to working 

with the community to make the plan a reality. 

We have set the bar high and we are well placed to realise our vision. 

Hon Brendon Grylls MLA 

Minister For Regional Development; Lands

VISION FOR KARRATHA 

- CITY OF THE NORTH 

A liveable, compact, Regional City of 50,000+ people, with a diversified 

economy, a healthy local community which demonstrates demographic 

balance, affordability, high quality amenity, and infrastructure. It is a place 

of choice, to work, visit, grow up, raise families and age gracefully.

FOREWORD 

Karratha is about to embark on a journey that will 

transform it from a mining town to a regional city. In 

permanent population terms, it will grow to more than three 

times its present size. The town centre, currently the major 

hub of activity in Karratha, will need to change dramatically 

to respond to and cater for this anticipated growth. 

The current town centre was set aside in the planning 

for Karratha over forty years ago and it has developed 

incrementally, in a largely piecemeal fashion, in the 

intervening years. While it now boasts a large and comfortably air-conditioned 

shopping centre, offices and specialty shops, it does not function well as a 

town centre. Large areas of open car parking, that become blisteringly hot in the 

summer, are not the building blocks of a successful city centre. 

Great city centres of the world all have their particular characteristics that make 

them memorable. The City Centre Master Plan for Karratha does not set out to 

mimic any other city, but provides a sustainable framework that will enable the 

city centre to grow over time in response to the development of Karratha as a 

city of 50,000 people. It recognises what is on the ground today, and the climatic 

considerations that will play a major role in determining the type of city centre 

that Karratha deserves. 

The City Centre Master Plan is one of three documents that provides the 

necessary foundation for Karratha to achieve the goal of becoming a City of the 

North, and will sit alongside the Implementation Plan and the City Growth Plan. 

The City Centre Master Plan provides a spatial dimension that explains how 

the city centre could develop. It includes urban design and landscape design 

guidance to steer development in the right direction in order to achieve the 

objectives that have been set for the town centre. 

There is no doubt that in order to develop a city centre with vibrancy, vitality and 

variety an intensification of uses will be necessary. The Master Plan shows how 

this can be achieved. 

It contains a phasing plan that shows how and in what sequence land for 

development and supporting infrastructure will be provided. Community 

infrastructure delivery is also included, together with an implementation strategy 

for the whole Master Plan. 

As with the City Growth Plan, the City Centre Master Plan will inform changes 

that will be needed to the Shire of Roebourne’s local planning scheme and its 

local planning policies. 

This City Centre Master Plan represents an exciting opportunity and heralds 

the significant change necessary for us to become a City of the North. We are 

seeking the community’s feedback to these innovations and challenges so that in 

whatever form the Plan is eventually adopted, the Shire will know that it has the 

support of the community. 

Join with us as we transform Karratha into a city to be envied. 

Nicole Lockwood 

President, Shire of Roebourne

vi 

FUTURE CITY 

... Finally the City comes alive as it falls into the arms of a cool night, 

balconies full with gatherings and streets with performers fire and dance 

while up by the water tanks above the lantern like glow of hillside housing, 

fireworks celebrate the start of the cultural festival. Foreign languages 

intermingle in exuberance over the richness of indigenous collaboration in 

creating and a city of the north and resorting wonder to the Pilbara while a 

temporary worker who arrived 10 years ago swigs a beers and laughs at a 

email from a friend drowning in winter somewhere to the south.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

WHERE ARE WE NOW? 

Mining and resource extraction is the backbone of the 

Pilbara economy, and the scale of demand from China 

particularly and Asia generally is driving new projects 

on an unprecedented scale. The significance of the 

Pilbara to the national economy is unquestioned, but 

the indications are that unless major intervention occurs 

quickly this could be compromised through inaction in 

investing in Pilbara communities. 

Concern has been expressed in a large number of 

studies with input from resource industries, and all 

levels of government that our current practices are 

not sustainable because they are not leading to the 

development of sustainable local communities. The 

dominance of major industries, difficulties in attracting 

labour, high costs of living, inadequate infrastructure, 

and poor quality of amenity has led to a vicious cycle 

that needs to be broken. 

Karratha is one such town that is dominated by the 

resource sector, with an estimated population of some 

18,000 Karratha is under pressure for a variety of 

reasons. In summary these are: 

An economy tied to expanding resources sector and 

primary industrial activity; 

A workforce that is resource sector orientated; 

Shortages of service workers; 

High proportions of singles and families; 

Lower proportions of teenagers and seniors aging 

infrastructure at capacity; 

Limited availability of developable, affordable 

LandCorp inelastic land and housing supply pipeline; 

Limited housing choice; 

High demand and competition for limited housing 

supply; 

Social polarisation as access to housing is largely 

restricted to those on high wages or qualify for 

housing subsidies; 

Limited retail opportunities with low levels of 

competition; 

Poor quality of services and limited range of services 

do not meet community expectations; 

Limited cultural activities; and 

Limited planning and coordination. 

In considering the future of Karratha there are a 

number of key facts and figures that will need to be 

acknowledged, in summary these are: 

Karratha equates to 29% of the Pilbara region’s 

population; 

In comparison to regional WA and the Perth 

metropolitan area Karratha has a higher proportion 

of families with children; 

Average household size in Karratha is 2.9 persons in 

comparison to 2.5 persons in Perth Metro area; 

66% of all dwellings are separate houses; 

Median weekly income in Karratha is $2,078 double 

than the Perth Metro area; 

Rental in Karratha ranges from $300 to $1900pw; 

A median income household of $131,000 pa renting 

a four bedroom house would pay 75% of household 

income to rental payments; 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A median household income will 40% equity to avoid 

mortgage stress, this equates to around $375,000; 

Average price for a four bedroom house in Karratha 

is $900,000; 

Karratha is noticeably lacking in retail and consumer 

services employment (27% of total employment as 

opposed to the average of 37%); 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Karratha 

 

2020 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Distribution of employment in Karratha skewed to 

towards export/driver projects & Services (57%), 

relative to the average employment distribution of 23 

other Australian regional and centres; and 

In major regional centres such as Darwin, 

Rockhampton and Newcastle knowledge intensive 

consumer services employment is 14 to 17% of the 

total resident workforce, whilst Karratha is only 10%. 

vii

viii 

 

SO WHERE DO WE WANT TO BE? - KARRATHA 

50,000 – A CITY OF THE NORTH 

What are the fundamental steps that we will need to take 

to allow Karratha to evolve into a diverse and sustainable 

city of the north. Key moves that need to be made are 

as follows: 

An expanded, more diverse economy, which offers a 

broader selection of job opportunities; 

A planned city that responds to the environmental 

conditions of the Pilbara and exhibits a strong sense 

of place; 

Greater housing diversity that meets the needs of a 

broader demographic profile; 

Infrastructure that meets the needs of the city, and 

allows for growth; 

More industrial, commercial and residential land 

supply and creation of readily developable land 

banks that can be quickly released to the market; 

Improved housing affordability through normalisation 

of the housing market, centered around a strong 

private sector presence; 

Demonstration projects targeted at delivery 

of affordable land and housing for service and 

residential construction workers; 

A modern vibrant and attractive city centre which 

offers more opportunities to shop and socialise; 

Provision of services at a standard that meets the 

expectations of the community; 

Excellent connectivity and transport linkages 

throughout the city; and 

A partnership approach that facilitates the 

coordination and investment required to achieve a 

city of the north. 

HOW DO WE GET THERE? KARRATHA CITY OF THE 

NORTH IMPLEMENTATION PLAN (KCN) 

Our traditional interventions and delivery of soft and 

hard infrastructure by the State Government is conceived 

and delivered by a wide range of State agencies and 

Government Trading Enterprises (GTE’s), each with a 

different focus, timing and lacking coherence. The call 

for urgent action in Pilbara towns recognises that a new 

governance approach is needed. 

The challenge of creating sustainable Pilbara towns and 

communities therefore requires a new approach that can 

work simultaneously at a number of levels to break the 

current cycle: 

− Economic Diversification: If the population of 

Pilbara cities is to increase at the anticipated 

scale, this will require a significant increase in 

jobs to support the resident community. This in 

turn will require the diversification of the local 

economy, which means working closely with the 

resource industry to find ways of developing 

a more robust, flexible and adaptable local 

economy. 

− Lower Cost of Living: The high cost of living 

in Karratha is also impacting on the ability of 

Karratha to grow its population. Service worker 

accommodation at affordable prices will need to 

complement economic diversification initiatives. 

Initiatives and actions are needed to address 

the cost of rents and mortgages and free up the 

operation of the housing market. The availability 

of affordable housing to accommodate the 

required population is a key element on this. 

− Improving the Quality of Life: Although Karratha 

has both the natural and economic attractions, 

there is a high level of dissatisfaction with 

the level of service provision, facilities and 

amenities. The urban form, quality of the built 

form, and range of housing does not generally 

make a positive contribution to the quality of 

life for Karratha residents. There is a strong 

perception within the Karratha community 

that its needs in core areas such as health, 

education, utilities infrastructure, and transport 

and community amenities must be urgently 

addressed and that additional population 

growth will only exacerbate the situation, unless 

significant changes occur.

METHODOLOGY 

The KCN is a revitalisation plan that recognises from 

the outset that a coherent and integrated approach is 

necessary that will bring together the economic, social, 

environmental and built form responses that together 

are needed to deliver vibrant towns, with a good quality 

of life that is affordable for all to enjoy. 

The KCN project recognises from the outset that actions 

will be needed at several spatial and non-spatial levels 

simultaneously: 

− Region: Some things can only be achieved by 

coordinated interventions at the regional level. 

For example, many initiatives aimed at working 

with the resource industry to examine working 

practices, or diversifying the economy can only 

be tackled at the regional level. 

− City Wide: Providing more land for release to 

house the resident and business community 

requires better planning at the city wide level 

so that there is a clear vision on where best to 

meet these needs, built on a vision shared with 

business and the local community. This can then 

provide the framework needed to identify the 

infrastructure and non-spatial needs required to 

support these communities. 

− City Centre: At the heart of Pilbara cities are the 

city centres, as they provide the focal point for 

the community, meeting places to interact, and 

represent to visitors the meaning of the place. 

This analysis of Karratha and the development of 

the Blueprint was undertaken using the Driving force- 

Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) Framework. 

The DPSIR Framework is viewed as a means of providing 

a systems-analysis view of a socio-ecological system, in 

this case the human settlement of Karratha. 

Based on this analysis, project objectives were 

developed which (if met) will transition Karratha from its 

present state towards achievement of the aspirational 

goals. Various solutions were evaluated in terms of 

how effectively each different solution would meet the 

objectives of the City Growth Plan and City Centre 

Master Plan levels with the most effective being chosen. 

Extensive consultation has been undertaken on a wide 

range of matters directly impinging on the revitalisation 

of Karratha and its growth into a major Pilbara city. This 

has included the following: 

Business 

Traders 

Non-Government 

Organisations 

Workers 

Leisure and 

Recreation 

Providers 

Health 

Service 

Providers 

Education 

Providers 

(eg schools, 

further education) 

Local Media 

Local 

Police 

Shire of 

Roebourne 

Karratha 

Government 

Agencies 

state and federal 

Townsite 

Landowners 

Utilities 

Providers 

(eg WaterCorp, 

Alinta Gas) 

Resource 

Companies 

Chamber of 

Commerce and 

Industry 

Indigenous 

Community 

Landcorp 

Resource 

Contractors 

Local Community 

(eg sporting clubs, 

community groups, 

churches) 

ix

x 

 

CITY CENTRE MASTERPLAN 

The DPSIR Framework was used by the project team to 

assess the current situation, pressures and implications, 

and derive aspirational goals and project objectives. 

The multi-disciplinary team then used this framework to 

workshop what strategies and actions were required to 

realise the vision for the KCN. This enabled strategies to 

be identified, which were then developed by the project 

team, and then tested at a variety of design workshops 

with the Karratha community and key stakeholders. 

The KCN City Centre Masterplan outlines the principles, 

objectives and strategies for delivering the Pilbara Cities 

Vision to create a vibrant, active and diverse City Centre 

commensurate of Karratha as City of the North. It is not 

a plan just for the local government or a singular state 

department. Rather, it describes an integrated approach 

for local, state and federal agencies, the private 

sector and the community to transcend conventional 

sectoral boundaries to think and act holistically. It is an 

implementation-oriented plan, which is specific in terms 

of responsibilities, time and costs to ensure delivery can 

be coordinated and monitored. 

The City Centre Masterplan (CCMP) goes well beyond a 

list of projects; it outlines key principles and provides 

guidance for the future strategic development of 

the City Centre, including policy creation and design 

development. 

The CCMP utilises a precinct-based approach is to 

optimise the development of mutually beneficial 

relationships within the City Centre and also to minimise 

the potential for land use related conflicts to occur. 

Each precinct is based on some of the strengths of 

existing land use patterns within the City Centre, whilst 

providing guidance to facilitate future aspirations for 

intensification of land use patterns. 

This KCN City Centre Masterplan provides an overview 

of the strategies including the “non-spatial” strategies 

that together provide the roadmap to realise the project 

vision. The strategies and Projects identified have been 

determined for their ability to effect the greatest change, 

not only in terms of 

Government funded projects, but also to attract private 

sector investment into the future. 

The detailed implementation projects, actions and 

steps are described in more detail in Section 6, which 

are also included in Volume 1 KCN Implementation 

Plan. It is an adaptive management plan and is to be 

continually reviewed in the light of progress, and updated 

accordingly. 

In particular the CCMP outlines a staging plan that 

identifies priority projects to result ‘quick wins’ that will 

have the greats impacts on the existing Town Centre 

in the short to medium term. A focus on providing the 

key elements to establish a City Heart will require the 

extension of Sharpe Avenue, major streetscape works 

and upgrades to the public realm are some of the key 

initiatives identified as catalysts to the City Centre vision. 

KCN is a call to action for all sectors of government, 

industry and the community to bring infrastructure 

levels up to an acceptable standard. KCN requires a 

majority investment from the Federal, State government 

and Private Sector/Industry and a significant lower 

investment from the local government in the first 

instance. This KCN City Centre Masterplan is a roadmap 

for the journey towards the city of the north and the 

creation of a City Centre that will provide the diverse 

range of services and amenities commensurate of 

a future population of 50,000. It represents a new 

approach aimed at unifying strategies, initiatives and 

actions that combine, maybe for the first time, spatial 

planning and infrastructure with the economy and 

community. The intention is that this is to be a “living” 

document for the Shire and the state government 

through the Pilbara Cities Office, to work in partnership, 

to realise the joint vision for a city of 50,000 people.

CONTENTS 

1 INTRODUCTION 1 

1.1 FUTURE CITY CENTRE – OVERVIEW 2 

1.2 PROJECT SCOPE 3 

1.3 PROJECT METHODOLOGY 4 

1.3.1 Sustainability Framework 4 

1.3.2 Principles of Best Practice 6 

1.3.4 Project Management and Decision Making 8 

1.3.5 Consultation and Engagement 8 

1.4 STRUCTURE OF THIS DOCUMENT 9 

2 CONTEXT AND ANALYSIS 13 

2.1 BACKGROUND 13 

2.1.1 Pilbara Plan (2008) 14 

2.1.2 Pilbara Planning and Infrastructure 

Framework (draft) 14 

2.1.3 Karratha 2020 Vision and Community Plan 14 

2.1.4 Karratha Area Development Strategy 

and Structure Plan 14 

2.1.5 Karratha Settlement Profile 14 

2.1.6 Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail & 

Commercial Strategy (2009) 14 

2.1.7 Karratha Regional Hotspots Land 

Supply Update (2008) 15 

2.1.8 Housing Study for Pilbara Towns 

(2010) – Draft 15 15 

2.1.9 Strategic Plan (2009-2013) 15 

2.1.10 Shire of Roebourne Town Planning 

Scheme No 8 15 

2.2 ROLE AND FUNCTION OF THE KARRATHA 

TOWN CENTRE 17 

2.3.1 Current Situation 18 

2.3.2 Current Planning 21 

2.3.3 Key Drivers and Pressures 23 

2.3.4 Key Implications 24 

2.3.5 Goals and Objectives 24 

2.4 COMMUNITY 25 

2.4.1 Current Situation 

25 




2.4.5 Goals and ObjectiveS 31 

2.5 ENVIRONMENT 32 




2.5.4 Key Findings and Implications 34 


2.6 BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC REALM 35 






2.7 INFRASTRUCTURE 43 






2.8 STRENGTHENING KARRATHA’S 

SENSE OF PLACE 50 

3 PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 55 

3.1 FUTURE KARRATHA CITY CENTRE – GOALS 

AND OBJECTIVES 55 

3.2 CITY CENTRE PLANNING PRINCIPLES 57 

3.2.1 Principles of a Great City Centre 57 

4 AN INTEGRATED STRATEGY FOR 

KARRATHA TOWN CENTRE 61 

4.1 DIVERSIFYING THE ECONOMY 62 

4.1.1 Karratha Floorpsace 62 

4.2 DEVELOPING KARRATHA’S CITY CENTRE FOR THE 

COMMUNITY 62 

4.2.1 Community Development Approach 62 

4.2.2 Social Dimensions of a Vibrant City Centre 63 

4.3 RESPONDING TO ENVIRONMENT 65 

4.3.1 Environmental Investigations 65 

4.3.2 Additional Assessments 65 

4.3.3 Management Actions 65 

4.3.4 Licence and Approval Requirements 65 

4.4 A SPATIAL GROWTH PLAN FOR KARRATHA 65 

4.4.1 City Planning Principles 65 

4.4.2 Growth Plan Precincts 66 

4.5 CITY CENTRE MASTER PLAN 67 

4.5.1 Key Elements of City Centre Master Plan 68 

4.5.2 Connection 72 

4.5.3 Activity 76 

4.5.4 Built Form 77 

4.5.5 Public Realm 82 

4.5.6 Precinct Plan 95 

4.5.7 Town Centre Precincts 96 

4.5.8 Recommended Property Strategies 100 

4.6 INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUPPORT GROWTH 103 

4.6.1 Service Infrastructure 103 

4.6.2 Transport and Movement 103 

5 A NEW APPROACH TO 

GOVERNANCE 107 

5.1 LOCALISED ECONOMIC ACTIVATION 107 

6 MAKING IT HAPPEN – 

IMPLEMENTING THE STRATEGY 111 

6.1 ECONOMY 111 

6.2 COMMUNITY ACTIVATION 112 

6.4 BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC REALM 114 

6.4.1 Governance and Policy Development 114 

6.4.2 Projects and Strategies 115 

6.5 INFRASTRUCTURE 119 

6.6 PROPERTY AND ACQUISITIONS 120 

6.8 GOVERNANCE 128 

APPENDIX A - CONSULTATION 131 

APPENDIX B - PILBARA PLAN 145 

APPENDIX C - KARRATHA 2020 VISION AND 

COMMUNITY PLAN (2009) 146 

APPENDIX D - STRATEGIC PLAN (2009-2013) 147 

APPENDIX E - TRAFFIC 148 

APPENDIX F - COMMUNITY ACTIVATION 150 

APPENDIX G - BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC 

REALM 159 

APPENDIX H - INFRASTRUCTURE 160

FIGURES 

Figure 1: The Karratha Town Centre comprises a 

large shopping centre and a variety of 

predominantly single storey buildings. 

The Town Centre is characterised by 

dispersed land use patterns and vast 

areas of car parking. 3 

Figure 2: Sustainability Framework 4 

Figure 3: KCN Implementation Plan. 7 

Figure 4: Existing strategic planning framework 13 

Figure 5: District Context 17 

Figure 6: Distribution of Employment Comparison 18 

Figure 7: Distribution of floorspace by land use 

category. 19 

Figure 8: Land Ownership within the City Centre 20 

Figure 9: Retail and Commercial Floor Space 22 

Figure 10: Floor Space of All Categories 22 

Figure 11: Current and Projected Employment 

Levels by Employment Category 23 

Figure 12: Age Structure, 25 

Figure 13: Household Structure 26 

Figure 14: Dwelling Types 26 

Figure 15: Average House Settlement Price and 

Sales Karratha (2004 – 2009) 27 

Figure 16: 9am Prevailling wind 32 

Figure 17: 3pm Prevailing wind 32 

Figure 18: Mean minimum temperature 32 

Figure 19: Mean maximum temperature 32 

Figure 20: Mean rainfall 32 

Figure 21: Poor structure within the Town 

Centre limits is confusing and lacks 

permeability. The movement system is 

illogical in many areas and difficult to 

interpret in terms of its hierarchy. 36 

Figure 23: East west connection through the town 

centre is limited to peripheral roads such 

(Dampier Road and Warambie Road) 

and Welcome Road, all of which are of 

poor pedestrian quality. 36 

Figure 22: Finding the centre of Town is difficult 

and disappointing upon arrival. The 

geographical centre is generally three 

turns form a major road. 36 

Figure 24: Large street blocks encourage sprawled 

development forms that provide a limited 

relationship with the public realm and 

low permeability. 36 

Figure 25: There is a large amount of inactive 

street frontage (blue) in the Town Centre 

compared to active or interesting frontage 

(red). 37 

Figure 26: Buildings are generally setback from the 

street and surrounded by car parking. 38 

Figure 27: Minimal distribution of public open 

space in the existing Town Centre. 39 

Figure 28: Knitting the Town Centre together with its 

surrounding population and features is a 

key opportunity for the enhancement of 

the public realm. 40 

Figure 29: The visual connection to the surrounding 

environment such as the Karratha Hills 

has the potential to enhance Karratha’s 

‘Sense of Place’. 40 

Figure 30: Existing drainage networks may be 

further developed into an amenity for the 

town. 40 

Figure 32: Klenk Street 46 

Figure 35: Sharp Avenue 46 

Figure 33: Vast unmarked and underutilised 

parking areas 46 

Figure 36: Staggered/roundabout intersection with 

substandard central dome 46 

Figure 31: Unsightly entry statement to the town 

centre zone: Balmoral Road/ Welcome 

Rd intersection 46 

Figure 34: Poor intersection geometry and legibility 

at Headland Place/Klenk Street/Searipple 

Road intersection 46 

Figure 37: Traffic congestion at Balmoral Road/ 

Warambie Road intersection 46 

Figure 38: Settlements as Systems 55 

Figure 39: City Growth Plan Precincts 66 

Figure 40: City Centre Masterplan 67 

Figure 41: Sharpe Avenue as the key main street 

with its Grande Square supported by 

a Nature Promenade. This diagram 

also shows a pedestrian connection to 

potential new residential areas to the 

north of the City Centre. 68 

Figure 42: New east west public transit based 

routes connecting to the surrounding 

residential areas.68 

Figure 43: Strong connections to the Karratha Hills 

and surrounding Landscape has been 

achieved through extension of Sharpe 

Avenue as a key vista. 69 

Figure 44: A variety of civic spaces and public 

parkswill be provided within the City 

Centre encouraging a wide variety of 

passive and active recreational activities. 69 

Figure 45: City Centre Masterplan 70 

Figure 46: ‘The Quarter’ Entertainment Precinct 

- Intersection of Sharpe Avenue - East 

West Link. 72 

Figure 48: Sharpe Avenue (looking north towards 

Grande Square). 72 

Figure 47: Civic Courtyard (internal space inside 

perimeter block development -may be a 

deck over internal parking). 72 

Figure 49: Grand Square – Central palm court of 

Murchison Palms. 72 

Figure 50: An improved structure with a rational 

street network that promotes legibility 

and permeability. 73 

Figure 51: Providing a heart to the City Centre that 

is easier to find from the surrounding 

road connections. 73 

Figure 52: Improved east west connection where 

additional connections and a public 

transport route takes pressure off existing 

road connections such as Warambie 

Road. 73 

Figure 53: A finer grain through reduced street 

block sizes make navigation through the 

City easy whilst increasing the potential 

for activity at the street edge. 73 

Figure 54: Active street frontages, interesting 

facades and the avoidance of blank walls 

will be a key feature throughout the City 

Centre. 76 

Figure 55 : Buildings are designed with minimal 

street setbacks with car parking located 

in streets and concealed behind 

buildings to promote greater activity at 

the street edge and improve aesthetic 

appeal. 77 

Figure 56: Shade Study Existing Town Centre – 20 

March 9am 81 

Figure 57: Shade Study Existing Town Centre – 20 

March 4pm 81 

Figure 58: Shade Study Proposed City Centre – 20 

March 9am 81

Figure 59: Shade Study Proposed City Centre – 20 

March 4pm 81 

Figure 60: A greater variety of parks and civic 

spaces is proposed throughout the City 

Centre. 82 

Figure 61: City Centre Public Realm Concept Plan 83 

Figure 62: Karratha Town Centre public realm 

design principles 84 

Figure 63: Proposed typical section(s) through the 

main street 85 

Figure 64: Main street concept 85 

Figure 65: Proposed typical section through the 

‘Nature Promenade’. 88 

Figure 66: Major Landscape Components - Nature 

Promenade 88 

Figure 67: Nature Promenade 89 

Figure 68: Nickol Bay Park 89 

Figure 69: Proposed Community Garden and 

Possible Ecology Centre 89 

Figure 70: Proposed Youth Centre Area 90 

Figure 71: Proposed Sculpture Park 91 

Figure 72: Pedestrian Link to Karratha Hills 91 

Figure 73: Predominant Karratha Colour Palette 92 

Figure 74: Textures of the Region 92 

Figure 75: Possible Textural Finishes 93 

Figure 76: Colour for Gathering Places 93 

Figure 77: Car Park Elements 94 

Figure 78: Precinct and Land Use Plan 95 

Figure 79: CA 1 - Key Intersections in Karratha 

Town Centre - PARAMICS simulation 

model 102 

Figure 80: Proposed Intersection Treatment 

Measures for the Karratha Town Centre 

Road Network 103 

Figure 81: Proposed short term (0-5 Years) 

development actions. 124 

Figure 82: Proposed medium term (6-10 Years) 


Figure 83: Proposed long term(11-20+ Years) 


Figure 84: Key Stakeholders 131 

Figure 85: Scenario 1 133 



Figure 88: Existing Pedestrian and cyclist town 

centre network map 148 

Figure 89: Karratha town centre daily traffic projects 148 

Figure 90: Karratha town centre daily traffic projects 149 

Figure 91: Friday parking occupancy map 149 

Figure 92: Saturday parking occupancy map 149 

Figure 93: Servicing Plan outlining existing utilities 

within the existing Centre. 164 

TABLES 

Table 1: Approach 5 

Table 2: Consultation and Engagement 8 

Table 3: Structure of Document 9 

Table 4: Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail 

Floorspace 19 

Table 5: Karratha Primary Trade Area 

Commercial Floorspace 19 

Table 6: Retail Category 21 

Table 7: Office Category 21 

Table 8: Ethnicity 25 

Table 9: Countries of Birth 25 

Table 10: Town Centre Community Facilities 

(Current) 28 

Table 11: Sun angles 32 

Table 12: Estimated traffic volumes for key 

Karratha town centre roads 46 

Table 13: Goals and Objectives 56 

Table 14: Design Elements and Principles 79 

Table 15: Exotic Tree Species 87 

Table 16: Economy 111 

Table 17: Community Activation 112 

Table 18: Environment 

Table 19: Governance and Policy Development 114 

Table 20: Projects and Strategies 115 

Table 21: Infrastructure 119 

Table 22: Staging- Connection 121 

Table 23: Staging- Built Form 122 

Table 24: Staging- Public Realm 123 

Table 25: Governance 128 

Table 26: Summary of Submissions 136 

Table 26: Summary of Submissions (Continued) 137 

Table 27: Karratha 2020 Vision and Community 

Plan (2009) 146 

Table 28: City Centre Governance 150 

Table 29: Business Support 150 

Table 30: Access to Services 151 

Table 31: Safety and Security 151 

Table 32: Social Connections- General 151 

Table 33: Social Connections- Families 152 

Table 34: Social Connections- Youth 152 

Table 35: Social Connections- Fly in fly out 

(FIFO) / Temporary Workers 153 

Table 36: Social Connections- Seniors 153 

Table 37: Recreation and Leisure 153 

Table 38: Celebration 154 

Table 39: Culture and Heritage 154 

Table 40: Entertainment 154 

Table 41: Karratha City Centre Activation 

Indicative Calender of Events 155 

Table 42: Community Facilities- Proposed Initial 

Projects 156 

xiii

xiv

CITY CENTRE MASTER PLAN 


VOLUME 3 - PART 1.0

xvi 
























1 INTRODUCTION 

The State Government has a vision to revitalise Pilbara 

towns, and has indicated its intention to develop 

Karratha into a ‘city of the north’. Similarly, the Shire 

of Roebourne, through the Karratha 2020 Vision 

and its Strategic Plan, has articulated the desire for 

Karratha to continue to grow sustainably and support 

local economic activity. Karratha would become a 

major City of the North under the State Governments 

groundbreaking Pilbara Cities Initiative to encourage 

more people to live and settle in the Pilbara. 

Similarly, the Shire of Roebourne (SoR), through 

its Karratha 2020 Vision and its Strategic Plan, has 

articulated the desire for Karratha to continue to grow 

sustainably and support local economic activity. 

A robust planning framework is required and one that 

will elevate Karratha as a City of Excellence, capable 

of delivering key outcomes through both public and 

private pathways. The planning framework is to provide 

guidance for the revitalisation of the current town centre 

to grow into a future city centre to meet the vision of 

Karratha as a City of the North. 

Together, the SoR and LandCorp have embarked in a 

collaborative partnership on the Karratha revitalisation 

project and the preparation of a blueprint for future 

development of the town centre to a 

City Centre. 

The Shire of Roebourne is responsible for the delivery of 

local services, infrastructure and facilities to meet the 

needs and aspirations of the local community. 

LandCorp as the State Governments land development 

agency is responsible for delivering land and 

infrastructure projects throughout Western Australia, 

bringing government landholdings to the market to meet 

residential, commercial and regional needs and will have 

a strategic role in the partnership with local government 

1.0 

and private sector to realise the current town centre 

potentially into that of a future city centre. 

Private enterprise, local businesses and resource 

companies represent the third arm of the development 

partnership. The concerted and coordinated involvement 

of the private and public sectors is essential to achieving 

a holistic approach to the revitalisation of Karratha. 

“The Pilbara is the economic powerhouse of Australia 

and is on the verge of another period of accelerated 

economic growth. 

The State Government is acting quickly to fulfil its 

election commitments to meet not just the anticipated 

short-term pressures, but to secure the Pilbara’s future 

long after the resources sector has reached its peak. 

Critical to this will be enticing people and businesses not 

involved in the mining, oil and gas sectors to the region. 

“The Government’s vision is to create places that 

people choose to settle on a permanent basis, a place 

to bring up families with access to high standards of 

education, health and diverse employment and career 

opportunities. 

“We have set the bar high, but we are a ‘make it happen’ 

Government. The Pilbara Cities blueprint lays out the 

steps we, and our partners in the private sector, need to 

take to achieve the very best outcomes, not just for the 

people of the Pilbara, but for all Western Australians.” 

Pilbara Cities would also bring opportunities for private 

developers to help deliver accommodation solutions in the 

Pilbara where there is significant pressure on demand for 

both short-term and permanent housing.” 

Premier Mr Colin Barnett 27 November 2009. 

1

2 

1.0 

1.1 FUTURE CITY CENTRE – OVERVIEW 

The first signs of morning start to turn the black night 

sky and its millions of stars to a blue steel sheet. As the 

sun rises it catches the tops of the trees and illuminates 

their verdant desert foliage. It bathes the roofs of the 

buildings and sends rays of light through the leaves and 

sunshades to the city below. The city starts to move, 

slowly at first, shaking off the warm afterglow of a wellspent 

evening before. The wind wafts in lightly with 

the smell of an ancient land in its touch and a sense 

of purpose in its mood. Soon every street seems to be 

alive with casual activity. Cafes open their doors and 

residents their balcony shutters. Parks welcome 

joggers and babies in prams pause to listen to the 

sound of birds. 

The first bus of the day shuffles through from the coast 

on the way to the Burrup and alighting workers wave to 

drivers who have paused to let them cross the shared 

street. University students gather down cool urban 

lanes debating global financial regimes on a mosaic of 

red stone created by world-renowned aboriginal artists. 

Business executives scoop breakfast of locally grown 

fruit from a bowl while drinking coffee bought at a 

souk in an Arab city with a similar sensibility for place. 

Children skip towards school on a path that will take 

them through the linear park where nature plays out its 

daily cycle. Splashing water fills the senses and cools 

the air and the city breathes in a new day. 

Lunch has arrived after hurried preparation in 

restaurant kitchens. Workers have answered emails and 

made meetings, retailers have paid the day’s rent with 

the morning sales, research presentations have been 

made and the Burrup has seen a mountain loaded into 

a steel hull and slipped from berth. The edges of streets 

and squares are colonised by friends and strangers in a 

gaggle of discussion. Watches are glanced at and feet 

taken back to work giving way to the afternoon where 

musicians throw notes across the street to clusters of 

travellers soaking up the City after adventures in the 

wilderness. 

Twilight falls and families gather dinner from 

supermarkets and grocery stalls and their children 

from dance classes and creative class studios. The 

musicians move into bars on squares and the bay 

front streets lure in tourists and businessmen while 

locals finish a run through the park past the evening 

market or take out corporate rivalries on the local sports 

ground. Finally the City comes alive as it falls into the 

arms of a cool night, balconies full with gatherings and 

streets with performances of fire and dance while up by 

the water tanks above the lantern like glow of hillside 

housing, fireworks celebrate the start of the cultural 

festival. Foreign languages intermingle in exuberance 

over the richness of indigenous collaboration in creating 

a city of the north and restoring wonder to the Pilbara 

while a temporary worker who arrived 10 years ago swigs 

a beer laughing at a email from a friend drowning in 

winter somewhere to the south. (Brett Wood-Gush, 2010) 

The challenge of creating a sustainable City in this 

region therefore requires a new approach that can work 

simultaneously at a number of levels to create the 

conditions for greater economic diversity, lower cost of 

living and improved quality of life. 

If the population of Karratha is to increase at the 

anticipated scale, this will require a significant increase 

in jobs to support the local resident community. This in 

turn will require the diversification of the local economy, 

which means working closely with the resource industry 

to find ways of developing a more robust, flexible and 

adaptable local economy. 

Economic diversification will provide a broader range of 

local employment opportunities. The starting point for 

this is to investigate ways in which current activities in 

the resource industry supply chain could be provided 

or sourced locally. This will require a coordinated 

response that would support service workers, 

provide land and accommodation for new 

businesses, and create the conditions 

that will allow the local economy to 

expand. 

Action is needed to make more 

jobs available locally, lower the 

costs of living and facilitate 

better planning in the towns 

to make them attractive 

places. With these actions 

taken together the cycle can 

be broken and a sustainable 

future created for Karratha 

and its communities. 

The Karratha City Centre Master Plan forms part of the 

Karratha City of the North Plan. It is the “blueprint” for 

the revitalisation and future growth of the Karratha City 

Centre. 

This plan will guide the development of future 

housing, open spaces, commercial activities, tourist 

accommodation, entertainment and retail areas, as 

well as service infrastructure, transport, education 

and community facilities in the City Centre aimed at 

delivering a City Centre commensurate with a future 

population of 50,000 people. 

VISION FOR KARRATHA - CITY OF THE NORTH 

A liveable, compact, Regional City of 50,000+ 

people, with a diversified economy, a healthy 

local community which demonstrates 

demographic balance, affordability, high 

quality amenity, and infrastructure. It is a 

place of choice, to work, visit, grow up, raise 

families and age gracefully.

1.2 PROJECT SCOPE 

The scope of this project is to prepare a City 

Centre Master Plan in conjunction with a City Wide 

Growth Strategy, and an implementation blueprint. 

This document, the City Centre Master Plan has 

involved the consideration, examination and 

assessment of a wide range of issues, initially and 

broadly at a regional context and then in more detail 

at the Karratha urban area context. This component 

of the report focuses on delivering a robust city centre 

commensurate of a regional centre with a population 

of 50,000 or more persons. 

Figure 1: The Karratha Town Centre comprises a large shopping centre and a variety of predominantly single storey buildings. The Town Centre is characterised by dispersed land use patterns and vast areas of 

car parking. 

1.0 

3

4 

1.0 

1.3 PROJECT METHODOLOGY 

The Karratha Revitalisation Plan provides an overall 

framework for the future development of Karratha 

and its evolution into a City. It aims to co-ordinate the 

work of local and state Government and other key 

stakeholders in a coherent plan to improve the quality 

of life for all the people living in the area. Preparation 

of the Plan has taken into account the existing social, 

economic and environmental conditions, challenges 

and the implications these have for development. The 

adopted methodology recognises that Karratha cannot 

be considered in isolation and so considers economic 

and social development for the Pilbara region as a 

whole. The approach sets out a framework for how land 

should be used, what infrastructure and services are 

needed, how community wellbeing can flourish and how 

the environment should be protected. 

The Blueprint is a ‘business plan’ for delivering the 

Pilbara Cities Vision to create Karratha as a City of 

the North. It is not a plan just for the local government 

or a singular state department. Rather, it describes 

an integrated approach for local, state and federal 

agencies, the private sector and the community to 

transcend conventional sectoral boundaries to think 

and act holistically. It is an implementation-oriented 

plan, which is specific in terms of responsibilities, time 

and costs to ensure delivery can be coordinated and 

monitored. The plan goes well beyond a list of projects. 

1.3.1 SUSTAINABILITY FRAMEWORK 

Sustainability is defined in Western Australia as meeting 

the needs of current and future generations though 

an integration of environmental projection, social 

advancement and economic prosperity. 

In applying this definition to development it is useful 

to consider human settlements as complex, adaptive 

systems. Managing settlements is about managing a 

“place” as a socio-ecological system. The system has 

sub-domains that are purely social (e.g. inclusion, equity, 

affordability), purely environmental (e.g. unmodified 

natural habitat), and most importantly, the intersection 

between them where human activity is intimately 

connected to ecosystems (e.g. physical footprint of 

settlements, abstraction of water from the environment). 

This thinking has informed the methodology used in 

developing the Blueprint. 

This analysis of Karratha and the development of the 

Blueprint was undertaken using the Driving Force- 

Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) Framework. 

The DPSIR Framework is viewed as a means of providing 

a systems-analysis view of a socio-ecological system, in 

this case the human settlement of Karratha. Social and 

economic development (driving forces) exerts pressure 

on all the domains of interest, and as a consequence, 

their state changes. This change has implications 

(impacts) for humans and ecosystems. To be effective 

the Response must feedback on all the other elements 

(Figure 2). 

Driving Forces 

(high level human 

activities) 

Pressures 

Response 

City of the North Implementation Plan 

City Growth Plan 

City Centre Masterplan 

Figure 2: Sustainability Framework 

State 

- Community 

- Environment 

- Economy 

Impact

Step 1. Firstly Aspirational Goals were developed which 

describe the long-term desired characteristics of a 

sustainable Karratha. 

Domain Aspirational Goal 

Economy A robust, diversified local economy that 

effectively services the needs of local 

and regional industry and population. 

Community Communities that are safe, healthy, 

and enjoyable places to live and work; 

offer cultural, educational, recreational 

opportunities; provide appropriate 

housing, services and amenities; foster 

active local citizenship. 

Environment Local, regional and global ecosystems 

in which landform, habitat 

and biodiversity are retained and that 

provide natural provisioning, regulating 

and cultural services. 

Infrastructure & 

Resources 

Built 

Environment 

Table 1: Approach 

Economically efficient infrastructure for 

industry and households designed for 

efficient use of energy, water, materials 

and transport. 

An urban form that reflects the 

intrinsic qualities of the site context, 

characteristics and relationships and 

complements the natural environment 

with centres that are vibrant, dynamic, 

diverse and functional. 

Step 2. Each domain (i.e. economy etc) was then 

analysed using the DPSIR approach. The existing “state” 

or condition of each was determined with respect to the 

aspirational goals and population targets for Karratha. 

The drivers and pressures giving rise to the existing 

conditions were identified, together with the implications 

(impacts) for supporting or constraining progress 

towards the aspirational goals. 

Step 3. Based on this analysis, project objectives were 

developed which (if met) will transition Karratha from its 

present state towards achievement of the aspirational 

goals. 

Step 4. Broad strategies were developed which when 

taken together will represent an intervention that will 

meet the project objectives and hence guide Karratha 

forward. These strategies represent the Response 

element of the DPSIR framework. 

The objectives were also used to evaluate the various 

alternative solutions that were considered. This was 

done by evaluating how effectively each solution would 

meet the Objectives at the City Growth Plan and City 

Centre Master Plan levels, and to select the chosen 

strategies. 

Step 5. The Implementation Plan aims to articulate 

the steps needed to implement the chosen strategies 

(projects, initiatives and actions) both within and 

beyond the present project. This includes actions, key 

and contributing responsibilities and a framework to 

undertake monitoring and evaluation. 

Accordingly the Framework has actively guided the 

development of the Blueprint towards the effective 

implementation of solutions that will contribute to 

optimising immediate and longer-term social, economic 

and environmental outcomes. 

The project process and structure of this report are 

based on the methodology described above. 

1.0 

5

6 

1.0 

1.3.2 PRINCIPLES OF BEST PRACTICE 

Developing and implementing a vision for Karratha’s 

development as a ‘City of the North’ requires a 

methodology that draws on a number of disciplines 

and is underpinned by an unswerving commitment to 

economic, social and environmental sustainability. 

The revitalisation process, which aims to facilitate the 

growth, rejuvenation and diversification of the existing 

town centre to establish a City Centre for Karratha 

capable of servicing growing needs as the future 

population moves towards 50,000. This can only be 

achieved through looking at the relationship between 

the Karratha City Centre and its city wide context and 

developing a plan that addresses the needs of Karratha 

in a holistic and integrated manner. 

A critical consideration is the need to integrate planning 

so that the work of the agencies involved coheres and 

brings all stakeholders together behind one driving 

vision. More often than not, interventions in processes 

of urban growth have been conceived and delivered by a 

wide range of agencies, each with a different focus, and 

have consequently missed opportunities for coordinated 

delivery and optimal outcomes. Interventions 

have too often been based on spatial planning and 

land development, paying scant attention to the 

diversification of the local economy and the provision of 

the services, facilities and activities that are essential to 

the development of sustainable communities. 

Current pressures on the Karratha community combined 

with the certainty of accelerated growth demands 

not only a timely response from government but also 

a measured, inclusive approach. Such an approach 

is based on the creation of a shared vision, fostered 

through community engagement and empowerment, and 

the building of partnerships with key stakeholders. 

In developing a revitalisation plan for Karratha City 

Centre as it develops into a major North West city it 

is sensible to build on experience elsewhere. A review 

of best practice suggests that, to be successful, 

revitalisation projects need the following characteristics: 

A comprehensive understanding of the existing 

context; 

Visioning process with broad community involvement; 

A community engagement and communication 

strategy; 

Clear, shared agreements for the management, 

resourcing and implementation of the project; 

A strategy for implementation; 

Ongoing dialogues across sectors, with private sector 

consultation regarding market conditions for plans, 

strategies and actions; 

Targeted interventions that tackle identified 

deficiencies, gaps or inefficiencies; 

An approach that goes beyond physical development 

and plans for economic development, community 

development and environmental sustainability, with 

action plans for implementation; 

The establishment of partnerships across 

government, between the public and private sector, 

and with the voluntary sector to deliver desired 

outcomes; 

Alignment of plans for the town/suburb/city centre 

with those for the region; 

A pooling of skills and expertise during the delivery 

phase; and 

Rigorous processes for monitoring and evaluation. 

The Government of Western Australia and the SoR have 

embraced these principles as they move to position 

the Karratha City Centre for sustainable growth and 

a diversified economy commensurate of a City with a 

future population of 50,000 or more people. 

1.3.3 PROJECT APPROACH 

The approach to the revitalisation of Karratha and other 

Pilbara towns as part of the Pilbara Cities initiative is 

not unique. It is widely recognised around the world that 

some places require interventions, without which they 

are unlikely to reach their potential. The more important 

these places are, the more urgent the need will be to 

identify exactly what is required to be most effective. 

Karratha is at the centre of the resource driven boom 

and will be under increasing pressure to respond to not 

only the needs of the private sector but also to elevate 

the level of service for the existing community. 

Further, places like Karratha have over the years made 

serious attempts to develop partnerships, facilitate 

redevelopment and to develop strategies and policies 

that will cause or seek to cause change where required 

or needed. 

Accordingly this process was commenced on a principle 

of building upon past work. This was also important 

from the community’s perspective, as there is anecdotal 

evidence that the community was feeling over consulted. 

Similarly the project delivery timeframe, of which 

was mostly over the Christmas 2009/10 period was 

condensed to enable the outcomes of this project to be 

utilised to seek appropriate funding, at the state, federal 

and private sector levels.

The development of the City Centre Plan is a key element 

of the overall ‘Blueprint’ that represents a holistic 

and cohesive approach to community and economic 

development based on a shared vision for how we can 

create a vibrant and liveable Pilbara city. 

Our approach is based on the creation of a shared future 

vision fostered through community engagement and 

empowerment and the building of partnerships with 

key stakeholders. This approach will be implemented 

through strategically targeted interventions that address 

current concerns and issues, while also realising 

untapped opportunities. 

With specific reference to the process used to develop 

the City Centre Plan, the following are the key steps were 

taken to achieve this plan: 

1. Drawing from past work to develop the project 

Vision and Goals; 

2. Aligning with a Sustainability Framework; 

3. Understanding context (particularly testing the 

validity of the role of the Karratha in relation to the 

region and the relationship between the broader 

townsite and the existing town centre); 

4. Undertaking analysis of the centre in relation to 

structure, land use, public realm etc; 

5. Developing key City planning and urban design 

principles to guide scenario development; 

6. Developing various city growth scenarios for 

consideration by stakeholders; 

7. Testing city growth scenarios with key stakeholders, 

including landowners to inform city growth/ 

development plans; 

8. Conducting design sessions with key stakeholders 

and the broader community to inform and refine the 

city growth plan; and 

9. Further refining the City Centre masterplan to 

reflect consultative feedback received 

10. Advertising the plan to seek broad community 

comment. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 3: KCN Implementation Plan. This diagram represents the framework in which the City Centre 

Master Plan has been developed and how this process has adopted an inclusive and holistic approach that is based upon 

ensuring the projects aspirational goals are weaved through the process as well as is embedded into its outcomes. 

1.0 

7

8 

1.0 

1.3.4 PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING 

Teams of substance with clear purpose and well-defined 

relationships are a prerequisite for the success of any 

major development or revitalisation project. The SoR 

and LandCorp established a partnership to develop and 

deliver the City Growth Plan. 

The SoR and LandCorp assembled a multidisciplinary 

team to develop and guide delivery of the City Centre 

Master Plan. The team comprised of consultants 

in the disciplines of, Town Planning; Urban 

design; Civil infrastructure engineering; Transport 

engineering; Landscape architecture / irrigation 

design; Environmental advice; Property development; 

Community development/engagement and Economic 

analysis/development. 

A project decision-making structure was put in place, 

to oversee the project as it evolved, refer to Volume 1, 

Section 1.3.5 for the details on the Structure, roles, and 

functions. 

1.3.5 CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT 

Consultation has been undertaken on a wide range 

of matters directly impinging on the revitalisation 

of Karratha and its growth into a major North West 

city. A variety of engagement techniques were utilised 

to develop the Karratha Revitalisation Plan. These 

techniques were employed specifically due to the short 

project timeframe, the time of year the project was 

conducted and as a means to maximise input from key 

stakeholders and the broader community throughout the 

project process. 

The objectives for the community and stakeholder 

engagement were to: 

Identify actions that will enable inclusive and 

effective stakeholder engagement, as well as clear 

communication with the project team; 

Determine stakeholder opinions and areas of interest 

in order to provide accurate feedback to inform the 

planning process; 

Discover synergies and potential for networks 

between participants; 

Build stakeholder ownership. 

In summary the key techniques employed were: 

Informing Providing key stakeholders with a summary 

of the relevant background information. 

Awareness raising of how well designed, 

climatically responsive cities are planned and 

designed. 

A series of provocation on how growth might 

occur for Karratha as well as its city centre. 

Feedback Random feedback from community members 

at public displays. 

Feedback via electronic means, web pages etc 

Seek broad community consultation on the 

proposed spatial plans. 

Written surveys 

Interviews One on one interview with key stakeholders. 

Design 

Workshops 

Focus 

Groups 

An interactive process to test design 

scenarios with key stakeholders, landowners 

and the broader community. 

Topic based sessions with key stakeholders 

to seek focussed responses to a series of 

questions that will assist with issue resolution 

and assist with developing strategies and 

actions 

Table 2: Consultation and Engagement 

A comprehensive list of stakeholders was developed 

with over 600 members from local community 

members, community organization representatives, 

Aboriginal groups, business and industry organisation 

representatives, government agency representatives 

(local and central) and local government representatives, 

which are detailed within Appendix A. 

MASTER PLAN EVOLUTION 

Three preliminary scenarios were tested with landowners 

and key stakeholders and presented to a Design Review 

Panel of experts brought together by LandCorp who 

provided specific feedback was provided by the panel 

to the consultant team. The purpose the Panel was to 

promote innovative design and sustainability outcomes 

for significant projects and to provide guidance and 

support for the project teams at key stages during the 

planning and development of the projects. Project 

Managers had the opportunity to undertake sessions 

during the planning and development phase of the 

project as well as undergoing reviews at the conclusion 

of key stages to ensure that the project’s design and 

sustainability objectives were being addressed. 

Feedback was also received from the Shire as a result 

of a number of briefing sessions and individual officer 

feedback, which resulted in further refinements to the 

plan. 

In February 2010 a series of focus groups were then 

conducted in Karratha with key stakeholders to explore 

key issues and responses to key questions. The 

preferred spatial design for the City Centre was then 

further refined using a number of techniques such as 

open community sessions, targeted meetings with key 

stakeholders and finally general community input. 

Details of each scenario that were developed and tested 

throughout the consultation process are contained 

within Appendix A.

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS 

The following information provides a summary of 

feedback specific to the consultation phases undertaken 

as part of developing growth plans for Karratha. 

A consultation phase with key stakeholders was 

undertaken in early December 2009 where several 

growth scenarios were tested against sustainability 

objectives and specific measures. 

Following a design workshop in February 2010, a public 

consultation phase was undertaken between late March 

and mid-April 2010 on the preferred draft City Centre 

Master Plan (and City Growth Plan) developed by the 

consultant team. The outcomes of the consultation have 

been considered and addressed as part of finalising the 

preferred City Centre Master Plan (and City 

Growth Plan). 

An overview of the consultation phase outcomes is 

provided below. Overarching themes that were raised 

during the consultation process are as follows: 

Sharpe Avenue extension as the principal main 

street was generally supported, however there were 

concerns regarding the impacts on the existing Aged 

Persons’ dwellings; 

Protection of natural features such as the Karratha 

Hills; 

Respondents were generally supportive of the eastwest 

transit link; 

Climate responsive design was seen as important to 

Karratha’s future; 

Higher densities should be at a scale that does not 

overwhelm the public realm; 

Alfresco dining was seen as a positive outcome for 

the City Centre; 

Concerns about the impact of growth upon the 

Catholic Church; 

Building heights should not detract from the 

Karratha Hills; 

New developments must be designed in an inclusive 

and culturally appropriate manner; and 

Indigenous cultures should be involved in future 

planning and design processes. 

1.4 STRUCTURE OF THIS DOCUMENT 

The Karratha City Growth Plan, the Karratha City Centre 

Master Plan and the Implementation Blueprint together 

form the “City of the North Implementation Plan” (KCN) 

for the revitalisation of Karratha. 

Together, these plans collectively will guide the 

development of future housing, open spaces, 

commercial activities, tourist accommodation, 

entertainment and retail areas, as well as service 

infrastructure, transport, education and community 

facilities. 

This document delivers one part of the Blueprint, 

being, Volume 3 – Karratha City Centre Masterplan. 

This plan will guide the future spatial and nonspatial 

development requirements determining 

the need for land supply, housing diversity, open 

spaces, identification of commercial nodes, tourist 

accommodation, entertainment and retail areas, as 

well as service infrastructure, transport, education and 

community facilities. 

This report has been structured to follow the 

sustainability framework and the three key domains of 

Economy, Community and Environment. Infrastructure 

and Resources and Built Environment have been 

singled out within this specific framework as key 

drivers for this project, acknowledging that in real 

terms these are typically delivery aspects of the 3 key 

sustainability elements. 

Broadly the document is structured as follows: 

Section Overview 

1.0 

Introduction An overview of the project is presented 

including the process and methodology 

for developing the City Growth Plan, 

the development of the sustainability 

framework and project Aspirational 

Goals, the approach to consultation, 

and the presentation of preliminary 

growth scenarios which were used to 

identify how Karratha’s capacity to 

accommodate growth may be explored. 

Context Analysis This section reviews background 

documents and current planning 

as well as identify the existing state 

of Karratha across each of the five 

sustainability areas. Gaps between the 

existing situation and the desired state 

expressed in the Aspirational Goals are 

identified as well as the implications 

these have on the future growth of 

Karratha. 

Project Goals 

and Objectives 

An Integrated 

Strategy 

Key objectives for each of the project 

goals are presented based on the 

outcomes of the context analysis. The 

objectives were used to frame and guide 

development of the strategy. Additionally 

key principles of good city design are 

presented which were used to guide the 

preparation of the spatial plan. 

This section presents both spatial and 

non-spatial responses that respond to 

the objectives and achieve the goals for 

each of the five sustainability areas. 

Governance This section reviews current governance 

arrangements and the limitations they 

may pose in implementation of the 

City Growth Plan from which, a new 

governance model is proposed that 

includes public-private partnerships. 

Implementation This section details recommendations in 

terms of new governance and strategies 

to implement the plan. 

Table 3: Structure of Document 

9

CONTEXT AND ANALYSIS 



VOLUME 3 - PART 2.0

12 

























2 CONTEXT AND ANALYSIS 

2.1 BACKGROUND 

An important aspect of the approach adopted by the 

Sustainability Framework was to identify the existing 

state of Karratha across each of the Aspirational Goals; 

identify gaps between the existing situation and the 

desired state expressed in the Aspirational Goals; and 

the key impacts (both positive and negative) that these 

may pose for the City Growth Plan. 

The direction and aspirations for the future growth of 

Karratha have been articulated in an array of strategic 

documents prepared over the last decade by both State 

and Local Government organisations such as the Shire’s 

Karratha 2020 Vision and Community Plan (2009) and 

the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC)’s 

Karratha Area Development Strategy (1998). 

These documents identify a range of visions, strategies 

and actions which together seek to modernise and 

transform Karratha to support long term economic 

activity in the region, improve the quality of life for 

existing residents and attract and retain new residents. 

The control of land use and development is governed 

by the Shire of Roebourne Town Planning Scheme No. 8 

(the ‘Scheme’). 

The following sections describe the current situation, 

current planning, key drivers and pressures and key 

implications facing the future growth of Karratha as 

a city of 50,000 people for each of the Sustainability 

Framework elements of Economy; Community; 

Environment Infrastructure & Resources; and Built 

Environment and Public Realm. 

Figure 4 identifies the relationship of the various 

agencies responsible for the preparation of the various 

plans and strategies: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

K2020 Plan 

Figure 4: Existing strategic planning framework 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pilbara 

Planning & 

Infrstructure 

Framework 

SoR 

Strategic 

Plan 

 

 

 

 

 

Pilbara 

Cities 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 

Plibara 

Plan 

Pilbara Strategic Documents 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.0 

13

14 

2.0 

2.1.1 PILBARA PLAN (2008) 

The Pilbara Plan, prepared by the Pilbara Area 

Consultative Committee in collaboration with a range of 

government agencies and private sector organisations, 

identifies a range of ‘community’ and ‘hard’ projects 

under nine priority themes to address key issues 

affecting the Pilbara relating to cost of living; quality of 

life; and labour turnover and reduced productivity. 

A summary of the priority projects relevant to Karratha 

Town Centre is contained with Appendix B. 

This City Centre Master Plan seeks to build upon this 

work and incorporate the recommendations contained 

within the document. The timing of this document is 

such that the finalisation of the Pilbara Plan will likely 

be informed by this document. 

2.1.2 PILBARA PLANNING AND INFRASTRUCTURE 

FRAMEWORK (DRAFT) 

The WAPC is currently preparing a regional planning 

framework document the ‘Pilbara Planning and 

Infrastructure Framework’ for the Pilbara region. The 

document, which will set out a settlement-focused 

regional development structure for the region, will 

provide a framework for public and private sector 

investment, as well as context for the preparation of 

local planning strategies and local planning schemes by 

local authorities. 

The framework is built on detailed profiles of the 

region’s major settlements in which Karratha is 

designated as a regional centre providing facilities and 

services not only to the 5 nearby satellite settlements 

of Dampier, Roebourne, Wickham, Point Samson and 

Cossack, but also to Pannawonica, Onslow and Cape 

Preston. 

The framework also incorporates findings from a range 

of existing Pilbara-wide studies and strategies including 

the Pilbara Plan document, prepared by the Pilbara 

Area Consultative Committee in 2008, which identifies 

a range of ‘community’ and ‘hard’ projects required for 

the sustainable development of the region in the short 

to medium term. 

The City Centre Master Plan seeks to build upon this 

work with regards to identifying new governance models 

and public private partnerships to facilitate the future 

growth and diversification of Karratha City Centre in an 

effective manner. The timing of this document is such 

that the finalisation of the Pilbara Plan will likely be 

informed by this document. 

2.1.3 KARRATHA 2020 VISION AND 

COMMUNITY PLAN 

The Karratha 2020 Vision and Community Plan 

(‘K2020’), prepared by the Shire in partnership with the 

State Government and industry, assesses Karratha’s 

infrastructure and service needs in response to 

anticipated future population growth. 

The document aspirationally identifies shifting Karratha 

as principally a resource driven settlement to a 

sustainable, economically diverse regional city of some 

30-50,000 people by 2020. 

The document categorises these needs around six 

themes for which a number of initiaves are identified 

to address the needs requirements for a growing 

population. The six themes comprise: 

Business, Entrepreneurialism and Economic 

Development; 

Infrastructure Investment and Transport; 

Leadership and Capacity; 

Liveability and Lifestyle; Natural Capital; and 

Community Health and Wellbeing. 

In addition, a number of specific major projects to 

enhance the town’s liveability, diversify the economy 

and assist with meeting the needs of major industry 

are identified. A list of the initiatives are contained in 

Appendix C. 



within the document at a broad level. Details of specific 

initiatives will still need to be sought from the K2020 

document. 

2.1.4 KARRATHA AREA DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY 

AND STRUCTURE PLAN 

The Karratha Area Development Strategy (KADS) is a 

sub-regional land and water use strategy intended to 

guide the future development of Karratha, its hinterland 

and the marine waters and islands over 25 years. 

The Strategy identifies Karratha as being the focus 

of major urban expansion with a need to enhance its 

regional role through the promotion of higher-level 

services and facilities, such as secondary and tertiary 

education, employment training and health amenities. 

The Strategy also identifies a need to strengthen 

the identity and improve the visual attractiveness of 

Karratha and its setting for residents and tourists. 

The Strategy incorporates a structure plan for Karratha 

which facilitates the expansion of the townsite to 

accommodate up to 37,000 people, of which 20,000 

people were able to be accommodated in the existing 

and future areas to the north of the hills with the 

balance in a second settlement south of the hills. 

Of particular relevance to the Town Centre is the 

development of the Leisure and Learning Precinct, which 

is likely result in the relocation of the existing Aquatic 

Centre from the town Centre to this precinct. 

This City Centre Master Plan seeks to replace the KADS 

document and provide the new strategic direction for 

the future of Karratha’s City Centre as well as inform 

the preparation of local planning strategies and town 

planning schemes. 

2.1.5 KARRATHA SETTLEMENT PROFILE 

The WAPC is currently preparing the Karratha 

Settlement Profile document. The document, which 

will provide background and inform the preparation 

of future strategic planning documents, will outline 

Karratha’s settlement pattern in terms of its physical, 

social, and economic characteristics, identify strengths, 

weaknesses, opportunities and challenges facing 

Karratha as well as its future role and function. 

This document is relevant to the City Centre Master Plan 

in that it identifies Karratha’s settlement characteristics 

and issues facing its future growth. 


work and validate the information contained within 

the document. 

2.1.6 KARRATHA PRIMARY TRADE AREA RETAIL & 

COMMERCIAL STRATEGY (2009) 

The Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail & Commercial 

Strategy prepared by SGS Economics Pty Ltd for 

the then Department for Planning and Infrastructure 

analysed existing retail and commercial floorspace 

provision for the principle towns within the Shire of 

Roebourne as well as identify future floorspace demand 

by the year 2020.



work and validate the information contained within 

the document. Given the scope of this document and 

given the Strategy growth forecasts extend to 2020 this 

strategy may require updating to reflect the specific 

floor space requirements for Karratha as a city of 

50,000. 

2.1.7 KARRATHA REGIONAL HOTSPOTS LAND 

SUPPLY UPDATE (2008) 

The Karratha Regional Hotspots Land Supply Update 

prepared by the WAPC in 2008, provided an overview 

of land supply within Karratha based on the status of 

major projects and current and anticipated lot creation 

activity. 

The Update identified that land release and housing 

supply within Karratha was subject to the following key 

challenges: 

The changing or unknown requirements for 

accommodating resource company workforces, and 

the split of workforces between mine, rail and port 

operations; 

Access to builders and capacity to construct within 

30-month time limit; 

Resolution of native title negotiations; 

Significant water and wastewater infrastructure 

upgrades and resolution of Aboriginal heritage 

negotiations relating to the development of land in 

Mulataga; and 

Ensuring the regional road network can adequately 

cater for increased local and regional traffic 

(including heavy freight vehicles) movements in a 

safe and efficient manner. 

The document also identified three areas of land within 

the Town Centre that were suitable for residential and 

commercial purposes, including the large area of Crown 

Land at the northern end of the Town Centre, a portion 

of which is currently earmarked for temporary service 

worker accommodation along with a site located on 

Balmoral Road adjacent to the existing petrol station. 

Upon the adoption of the Revitalisation Plan the Growth 

Strategy outlined in Volume 2 City Growth Plan will 

inform any future land release programmes. 

2.1.8 HOUSING STUDY FOR PILBARA TOWNS 

(2010) – DRAFT 

The Department of Housing and Pilbara Development 

Commission are currently preparing a study that 

assesses housing market conditions and unmet housing 

needs for the main Pilbara towns, including Karratha. 

The document will highlight a range of issues related to 

housing in the region including affordability, significantly 

increasing property prices, overcrowding, homelessness 

and improvised living arrangements. It will also provide 

commentary on the shortcomings of the housing market 

that inhibit the supply of housing. It is also expected to 

identify current unmet demand for housing from people 

already living in the town or those who would move to 

Karratha if there was housing available. 

This document is relevant to the City Centre masterPlan 

in that it will provide a detailed analysis with regards to 

the Karratha’s current and future housing needs. 

This City Centre Master Plan, together with the 

recommendations of the Housing Study, should be used 

to inform the preparation of a Local Housing Strategy. 

2.1.9 STRATEGIC PLAN (2009-2013) 

Strategic Plan 2009-2013 outlines the Shire’s 

organisational vision as well as objectives, initiatives 

and priorities for key goals under the themes of 

Communities; Delivering Services; and Local Economy. 

A key priority listed under the Communities 

organisational goal is to initiate the Karratha Town 

Centre Plan and Karratha Revitalisation Project. This 

document responds to this key priority. 

Key priorities relevant to the Town Centre identified for 

the future planning and sustainable growth of Karratha 

are contained within Appendix D. 



within the document. 

2.1.10 SHIRE OF ROEBOURNE TOWN PLANNING 

SCHEME NO 8 

The Scheme, which was gazetted in 2000 and prepared 

based on the KADS and associated Townsite Structure 

Plan, is technically past the 5 year review date stipulated 

by the Planning and Development Act (2005) whereby 

Schemes should be reviewed and consolidated. 

Notwithstanding this, only 16 amendments have been 

considered by the Shire in 9 years and only 4 have been 

gazetted, which in comparison with other local planning 

schemes is relatively few. 

As the amendments in Karratha have largely been land 

use based, it could be interpreted that either the current 

Scheme has served the Shire quite well, or the Shire 

simply does not have the resources to progress textual 

amendments or completely review the Scheme. 

2.0 

The principal functions of the Scheme are to reserve 

and zone land and control development on reserved 

and zoned land. With regard to Karratha Town Centre 

in particular, the Scheme states the following relevant 

objectives: 

Facilitate the continued growth of Karratha as the 

regional centre of the West Pilbara, in accordance 

with the Karratha Townsite Structure Plan (as 

amended). 

Develop Karratha as the tourist entry for the West 

Pilbara built upon and taking into account the levels 

of commercial travellers associated with resource 

developments. 

Preserve the key landscape and heritage values of 

the Karratha Hills. 

Develop the Town Centre as the civic and commercial 

node for Karratha, the Shire and the West Pilbara. 

Create an identity for the Town Centre through 

enhancing the built form and creating an identifiable 

central focus and improving legibility. 

Develop Tambrey as a district commercial centre that 

does not compete with the regional catchment of the 

Town Centre and its facilities. 

Enhance the high level of residential amenity within 

Karratha in both existing suburbs and the residential 

expansion areas. 

Encourage residential development that will 

accommodate a greater range of lifestyles and needs 

to reflect the broadening population base. 

The Scheme is a land use based statutory Scheme 

with prescribed zonings and a ‘Use/Class’ table, which 

permits, prohibits and provides Council discretion to 

approve certain land uses in certain zones depending on 

the purpose, intent and objective of the zone. 

15

16 

2.0 

The alternative to a land use based Scheme is a 

more flexible precinct based Scheme such as those 

in existence for the City of Perth which are more 

performance based and provide the regulatory 

authorities with greater discretion and flexibility to 

determine applications based on their merits and 

orderly and proper planning principles. Such Scheme’s 

do however, often require a significant amount of 

supporting policies and guidelines to clearly guide 

the development to provide the desired urban design 

outcome. 

Despite the Shire’s Scheme being a land use based 

Scheme, the Scheme does provide greater flexibility 

in areas set aside for future urban or industrial 

development where the actual urban design and land 

use is determined based on a structure planning process 

referred to in the Scheme as ‘Development Plans’. The 

Scheme sets aside significant land areas for future 

urban development based on the recommendation of 

the Karratha Area Development Strategy (KADS) but 

does not contemplate the expansion of the Town Centre. 

Development Plans referred to in the Scheme have, 

however, only been used for areas identified for future 

urban and industrial development to guide broad 

scale land use and subdivision and not for smaller 

land parcels such as those in the Town Centre where 

Development Plans (referred to in other Schemes as 

‘Detailed Area Plans’) could be used as a planning 

tool to encourage and require an urban design based 

solution on individual sites. 

With regard to density, the Scheme generally advocates 

a residential density of R20 with some pockets of higher 

R30 density near the Town Centre on a limited amount 

of scattered pockets throughout the existing urban area. 

The Scheme also contains a provision, which limits 

density in the Town Centre to an upper cap of R40, 

which today is considered a very low density to permit 

and encourage housing diversity and density within a 

town centre. 

Whilst the Scheme has the fundamentals tools required 

to govern and guide development, it is considered that it 

could be amended and accompanied by a revised policy 

framework where greater flexibility could be provided to 

Council that encourages housing diversity, sustainability, 

commercial and employment growth, community 

development and good urban design outcomes within 

the City Centre. 

Whilst the Scheme is instrumental in the availability of 

developable land, other technical matters such property, 

land assembly and floor space requirements are outlined 

in subsequent sections of this report. 

This City Centre Master Plan seeks to inform the review 

and preparation of a new planning framework including 

a local planning strategy and a new town planning to 

enable the development of a future City Centre for 

50,000 people and beyond. In addition to the Scheme 

the Shire currently has a suite of Planning Policies 

prepared and adopted pursuant to the Scheme to guide 

development. These will need to be reviewed in light of 

the recommendations of this City Centre Master Plan. 

2.1.11 KARRATHA OPEN SPACE STRATEGY 

The Karratha Open Space Strategy, prepared by the 

Shire, provides a framework for the provision of public 

open space within Karratha as well as assist Council to 

rationalise its open space system within the context of 

overall need, function and operation. 

The Strategy outlined that several considerations 

influence the provision of open space in Karratha 

relating to climate, drainage and maintenance. The 

provision of adequate drainage to accommodate major 

storm events is a paramount issue in planning for open 

space areas. The high temperatures experienced in 

the town generally discourage daytime walking/cycling 

although these activities do occur in the evenings and 

cooler months. As a result of these extreme climatic 

conditions, maintaining public open space areas is a 

significant cost impost on Council. 

In terms of factors influencing the usage of open space, 

it is recognised that Karratha serves as a regional 

recreation hub for a lot of formalised recreational 

pursuits. There is a demand for a greater diversity of 

activities with an emphasis on cultural, non-competitive 

and passive sport and recreation opportunities to cater 

for a significant proportion of the population who are 

working shift hours and who are unable to engage in 

active recreational pursuits on a regular basis. 

The Strategy identified opportunities for the excision 

of approximately 19.82ha of land from the open space 

system across Karratha whilst maintaining the 10% 

open space requirement, including 10.5ha of land in 

Bulgarra, 1.5ha in Pegs Creek, 3.5ha in Millars Well, 

4.2ha in Nickol, however there are no land parcels that 

were identified within the Town Centre. 

This City Centre Master Plan seeks to review and 

incorporate the recommendations contained within the 

document. Specific reference has been made within the 

City Growth Plan Precincts to the key infill sites within 

that document.


2.2 ROLE AND FUNCTION OF THE KARRATHA 

TOWN CENTRE 

Karratha is arguably the primary regional centre of 

the West Pilbara region providing a high level of retail, 

commercial and administrative services and facilities. 

As Karratha develops into a regional city of 50,000 or 

more people, it will be the primary focus for major urban 

expansion providing a range of residential housing, 

shopping, community, recreation, education and health 

facilities, whilst incorporating a diverse local economy. 

The role and function of Karratha, as previously 

seen by the State, was articulated in State Planning 

Strategy prepared by the Western Australian Planning 

Commission in 1997. The Strategy outlined a vision for 

the Pilbara region in which the region was to become 

a “world leading resource development area focussing on 

mineral extraction, petroleum exploration and production 

and the primary stages of downstream processing. The 

region’s population will grow in the future, fuelled by 

specific resource development projects, the sustainable 

development of Karratha and a more diverse economy. A 

growing tourism industry will have developed based upon 

the region’s unique natural environment”. 

However 13 years on Karratha still faces various 

challenges, which typify remote mining based 

communities. Challenges such as access to appropriate 

and affordable housing, isolation, economic 

monoculture, ageing infrastructure, coordinated 

infrastructure provision and limited cultural and 

recreational opportunities all impact on the growth and 

amenity of the town. These are often further exacerbated 

by a continued focus on a Fly-In/Fly-Out (FIFO) transient 

workforce, which limits the capacity for the community 

to reach its potential. 

Dampier 

DAMPIER ROAD 

 

Figure 5: District Context 

NICKOL BAY 

KARRATHA 

As Karratha develops into a city , Karratha’s role as the 

key regional centre will be reinforced as the diversity of 

its offer increases to meet the demands of an increasing 

population. Furthermore, a number of supporting 

complementary district and neighbourhood centres 

will be required to effectively provide for needs of the 

population. The town centre currently provides that key 

role as the primary hub for the Town and in the context 

of the greater Karratha Township; the Town Centre is 

the primary focus of commercial, retail, community, 

cultural and administrative facilities. Whilst there is 

NORTH WEST COASTAL HIGHWAY 

Wickham 

a significant centre planned for Tambrey, there are 

currently no centres of significant calibre that function 

in a complementary role to the town centre. The future 

City Centre will continue as the central focus of Karratha 

for services and amenities, supported by a greater 

variety of smaller localised centres. 


Point 

Samson 

Cossack 

2.0 

The current State Government, in its November 2009 

Blueprint for the Pilbara Cities outlines its vision to 

transform the region by creating a modern, diverse and 

sustainable City at Karratha that is supported by all the 

services and facilities enjoyed by other Australian cities. 

Many of these services and amenities will be provided 

within the City Centre. 

17

18 

2.0 

2.3 ECONOMY 

The economy of Karratha and the Pilbara in general has 

been well documented in a variety of reports and studies 

including the Karratha 2020 Vision, the Pilbara Housing 

Study and the Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail and 

Commercial Study. This analysis does not propose to 

reproduce the analysis contained in such reports but 

rather focuses on the distribution of employment by 

category as an indicator of the nature of the Karratha 

economy and as the basis for determining the economic 

future of the town. 

2.3.1 CURRENT SITUATION 

A key consideration for the long term development of 

Karratha and the broader SoR is the relationship of 

Karratha as the main population centre (and proposed 

Pilbara City) to the other population centres of the 

Shire, namely: Dampier, Roebourne, Wickham, Point 

Samson and Cossack. 

The nature and development of these centres will 

impact upon the development trajectory for Karratha, 

particularly if locations such as Dampier are intended 

to be recreational / entertainment nodes. From a city 

wide activation perspective, the planning and provision 

of floorspace, for example, in these locations has the 

potential to draw some economic and social activity 

away from Karratha. 

While this analysis is concerned with the revitalisation of 

Karratha and its establishment as a pre-eminent Pilbara 

City, it is important to note that Karratha does not sit 

in isolation within the Shire. Future planning activities 

of the Shire will need to carefully consider the roles 

and functions of each of the centres and determine an 

optimal positioning strategy for each centre and the 

Shire as a whole. 

The key issues facing revitalisation of Karratha and the 

establishment of a Pilbara City include: 

Limited land supply; 

Housing availability and affordability; 

Cost of setting up and operating service sector 

businesses; 

The need to develop a ‘balanced’ regional workforce; 

The need for a balanced, sustainable economy 

beyond the construction stages of projects; 

The need to extend the local industrial and 

commercial capability to drive long term population 

retention and growth; 

The need to extend the local economy from 

predominantly a production based economy to 

a more balanced production / consumption / 

knowledge intensive economy; and 

The need to provide significantly higher levels of 

service and lifestyle amenity to attract and retain a 

substantial regional population. 

The distribution of employment in Karratha is heavily 

skewed towards export / driver projects and the 

associated producer services which account for 57% 

of all employment. Relative to the average employment 

distribution of 23 other Australian regional towns and 

centres (see Figure 6), Karratha is noticeably lacking in 

retail and consumer services employment (27% of total 

employment as opposed to the average 37%). Based 

on a comparison with the average of the towns and 

communities in the survey, Karratha is over represented 

in export / driver and producer services employment 

and under represented in retail / consumer services. 

Knowledge based employment is on a par with the 

average but this does not necessarily suggest that it is 

well catered for, rather it reflects the nature of regional 

economies in Australia. In major Australian regional 

centres such as Darwin, Newcastle and Rockhampton 

knowledge intensive consumer services employment 

typically accounts for 14 to 17% of the total residential 

workforce, significantly more than the 10% in Karratha. 

EXISTING TOWN CENTRE ACTIVITY 

The Karratha Town Centre has a broad range of land 

uses that are predominantly of a retail and commercial 

nature. Uses in the Town Centre include the following: 

Hotel accommodation 

Offices 

Retail 

Retail building goods 

Car parking sites 

Church 

Showrooms 

Residential 

Industrial 

Specialised properties 

Retirement Village 

Petrol Stations 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 6: Distribution of Employment Comparison 

(Source: Pracsys)


ECONOMIC ANALYSIS 

The following table summarises retail uses in The SoR 

and was produced by SGS Economics in 2009: 

Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail Floorspace 

Retail 

Category 

Karratha Karratha Dampier Wickham Roebourne Point 

Industrial Samson 

Supermarkets 8,360 0 1,700 1,800 0 0 11,860 

Household 

Goods 

6,005 0 0 0 0 0 6,005 

Other Food 1,351 0 90 240 0 0 1,681 

Other retail 6,158 4286 174 100 570 250 11,538 

Department 

Stores 

7,829 0 0 0 780 0 8,609 

Hospitality & 

Services 

4,372 241 120 280 0 950 5,963 

Clothing 2,398 0 0 180 0 0 2,578 

Total 36,473 4,527 2,084 2,600 1,350 1,200 48,234 

Table 4: Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail Floorspace 

(Source: SGS Economics & Planning 2009) 

The above table clearly demonstrates the current 

dominance of Karratha as a retail destination within the 

SoR. Consumers in towns outside of Karratha will need 

to shop within Karratha to satisfy demand for various 

retail category needs or obtain from other locations or 

by other means. 

Similarly the following table summarises commercial 

floorspace usage within the SoR and was produced by 

SGS Economics in 2009: 

Karratha Primary Trade Area Commercial Floorspace 

Category Karratha Karratha Industrial Dampier Wickham Roebourne 

Point 

Samson Total 

2.0 

Commercial 11,852 1,817 515 2,536 564 0 17,284 

Government 

Community 

9,898 1,287 866 548 2,859 0 15,458 

Services 4,831 0 970 2,533 4,740 404 13,478 

Total 26,581 3,104 2,351 5,617 8,163 404 46,220 

Table 5: Karratha Primary Trade Area Commercial Floorspace (Source: SGS Economics & Planning 2009) 

The Karratha town is clearly the dominant town for the 

supply of commercial floor space within the SoR. 

Figure 7: Distribution of floorspace by land use category. (Source: Karratha Retail Commercial Strategy July 2009) 

19

20 

2.0 

The predominant commercial type uses in the Town 

Centre are retail, commercial and to a lesser extent hotel 

type uses. 

CURRENT COMMERCIAL MARKET CONDITIONS 

Office premises within the Town Centre are 

predominantly situated on the streets of Hedland Place, 

Owen Road, Searipple Road, Welcome Road and Degrey 

Place. The majority of Government offices are situated 

on either Welcome Road or Degrey Place. The majority 

of office buildings are situated on the smaller lots in the 

Town Centre. Several are of two level construction. 

A high level of occupancy exists for commercial 

premises with only a small number of commercial 

premises are available for lease including but not limited 

to some small office suites, stand-alone type commercial 

premises and the former Karratha Cinema complex. This 

is reflected by the fact that there is only one vacant Town 

Centre development site for sale at the time of writing 

this report. 

CURRENT RETAIL MARKET CONDITIONS 

Retail in the city centre area is dominated by the 

Karratha City Shopping Centre, which opened in 1986 

and was extended in 1988. It currently comprises a 

lettable area of approximately 24,000m 2 . The centre is 

situated on a land area of 7.31 Hectares and includes 

approximately 1414 car bays. The majority of car bays 

are situated on additional land leased by the Shopping 

Centre from the Government to the Shopping Centex, 

situated over 4 sites having an area of some 2.356 

hectares. Such lots are in key locations within the Town 

Centre and in particular the largest of such 4 lots being 

9929m 2 situated on the corner of Sharpe Avenue and 

Barlow Place. The lease over the 4 lots is for a total term 

of 50 years expiring in 2036. 

The anchor tenants in the Karratha City Shopping 

Centre are Coles, Kmart, Woolworths and Country 

Target. Approximately 60 speciality tenancies inclusive 

of external fast food outlets, compliment the anchor 

tenants. Three of the larger speciality retailers are 

Retravision, Karratha Furniture and Bedding and Red 

Dot Stores. The Centre is open 7 days per week and The 

Coles and Woolworth’s tenancies trade from 7am – 9pm 

7 days per week excluding public holidays where they 

trade for 4 hours only. 

No premises are available for lease as at April 2010 in 

this centre. From discussions with the owners of this 

centre demand for premises is strong and both the Coles 

and Woolworths groups have requested additional area 

for expansion. 

The existing Woolworths and Coles supermarket stores 

within the Karratha City Shopping Centre are both in 

excess of 4,000m 2 . The combined turnover of these 

two supermarkets is understood to substantially exceed 

the turnover of the turnover of Perth Metropolitan 

supermarket stores of a similar size. 

Other major retail premises in the Town Centre include 

the Karratha Village Shopping Centre situated on 

Sharpe Avenue and opposite the Karratha City Shopping 

Centre. Such centre is spread over two strata titled lots 

and comprises a total building area of approximately 

6,164m 2 comprised in 39 premises with an average area 

of 158m 2 . This centre is well maintained and has an 

attractive streetscape. 

Several showrooms of varying size are situated on 

Balmoral Road and several of the major banks have 

premises situated on Hedland Place in two level 

buildings backing onto one of the shopping centre car 

parks. 

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION 

Three hotel operators exist within the Town Centre. 

Facilities offered on site include bars and restaurants 

that are well patronised by guests and other customers 

from the general community. The demand for such 

accommodation within such premises often exceeds 

supply to the extent that customers are often required 

to seek accommodation outside of the town centre 

into the townsite. Even worse, in some instances hotel 

accommodation needs to be secured in adjoining towns 

when no hotel accommodation can be secured within 

the town. 

PROPERTY OWNERSHIP SUMMARY AND USAGE 

In summary there are approximately 97 lots within the 

town centre of which four are strata titled. The freehold 

ownership spread of these lots is demonstrated on the 

following chart: 

 

 

Figure 8: Land Ownership within the City Centre 

 

 

 

 

 

MAJOR LAND OWNERSHIP 

Major owners in the Town centre are: 

The State of Western Australia (which owns several 

large parcels of vacant land and developed property 

spread throughout the town centre including 4 

strategically located parcels of land in prime 

locations. 

Centro Properties Group (Karratha City Shopping 

Centre, which is situated over several adjoining, 

parcels of land). 

The Shire of Roebourne. 

Ringthane Pty Ltd (Karratha International Hotel.) 

Owners of Strata Plan numbers 22706 and 036427 

(Karratha Village Shopping Centre.) 

Valtos Pty Ltd (All Seasons Hotel).


2.3.2 CURRENT PLANNING 

With regard to Karratha, the Karratha Primary Trade 

Area Retail & Commercial Strategy (2009) projected 

a resident population of only 14,000 with 1000 

FIFO (based on Pilbara Industry Community Council 

population projections). Retail floor space was projected 

to expand by 20,150m² from 41,000m 2 including 

4,527m 2 in industrial areas. This is outlined within the 

following table: 

Retail Category 

Karratha CBD 

Retail Category 

Karratha CBD (m 2 ) 

Supermarkets 4,500 

Other Food 600 

Department Stores 2,500 

Clothing 650 

Household Goods 5,500 

Other Retail 3,900 

Hospitality & Services 2,500 

Total Increase 20,150 

Total Floorspace 61,150 

Of these total figures, only 6,550m² of the retail 

floorspace (which included a 2,500m2 Table 6: Retail Category 

(Source: Karratha Retail Commercial Strategy July 2009) 

Department 

Store) and all of the office floorspace was envisaged to 

be accommodated within the Karratha Town Centre with 

other retail centres to be established in Nickol (8,100m² 

of retail floorspace) and the Gap Ridge Bulky Goods 

Centre (5,500m²). 

The strategy outlined a projection for the increase of 

office floorspace by 16,200m² from 26,581m 2 , which is 

detailed in the following table: 

Office Category Karratha CBD Office Category 

Karratha CBD (m 2 ) 

Commercial or Office 6,300 

Government 5,400 

Community 4,500 

Total Increase 16,200 

Total Floorspace 42,781 

Table 7: Office Category 

(Source: Karratha Retail Commercial Strategy July 2009) 

The key recommendations of the Strategy were to 

provide a retail centre at Nickol which included a 

supermarket (4,500m 2 ) other food (600m 2 ), other retail 

(2,000m 2 ) and hospitality and service areas (1,000m 2 ), 

expand the town centre to include another department 

store, clothing (650m 2 ), 1,900m 2 of other retail, 

1,500m 2 of hospitality services and 5,500m 2 of bulky 

goods and Gap Ridge. 

COMMERCIAL 

KFC restaurant and drive through outlet with frontage 

to Sharpe Avenue within the Karratha City Shopping 

Centre. 

Police Department and Justice Centre on the Corner 

of Balmoral and Basset Roads. 

BULKY GOODS / SHOWROOMS 

No new developments have occurred or known to be 

planned. 

RESIDENTIAL 

Structured Sale - Part Lot 553 Corner Searipple & 

Warambie Road. 

The proposed development on this land situated in the 

northern part of the town centre is for a multi level 

mixed-use development of predominantly residential 

use. 

The site is situated over two lots with a total area 

of 13,384m 2 split by a road to be constructed. The 

development may include active retail/commercial floor 

uses, a mix of residential uses and commercial/retail on 

the upper floors, still subject to approval by the SoR as 

part of DA submission. 

SERVICED WORKERS ACCOMMODATION 

A serviced workers accommodation site has now been 

secured by National Lifestyle Villages who will provide 

serviced workers units with 1, 2 and 3 bedroom options. 

The Site is located on the northern periphery of the 

Karratha Town Centre, directly north of the intersection 

of Sharpe Avenue with Warambie Road. 

As at April 2010 earthworks have commenced on site for 

the construction of accommodation. 

Accommodation will be constructed on a staged basis 

over 2 years with the first stage due for delivery in 

approximately August 2010. 

INDUSTRIAL 

No new developments have occurred or are planned. 

FLOORSPACE REQUIREMENTS 

2.0 

In order to consider Karratha retail and office floor 

space requirements and ensuring provision is made 

for adequate floor space to be provided as part of the 

Karratha City Centre Revitalisation, it is necessary to 

review existing and projected floorspace usage. 

Pracsys and SGS Economics & Planning (“SGS”) have 

both undertaken analysis of these market sectors. 

Pracsys advised that with regard to the planning for 

Karratha floorspace over time and, particularly out 

to year 2041 approximately, based on an anticipated 

population of 50,000, there are a number of variables 

over and above resident population that can influence 

demand for floorspace, particularly retail floorspace 

including: 

The nature and extent of the tourism sector and 

visitor base to Karratha. This sector is extremely 

underdeveloped and it is difficult to estimate what 

this might be in 30 years 

The extent of the FIFO population 

The extent to which Karratha as a major regional 

population centre will act as an attractor for Pilbara 

residents in general 

The extent of expenditure leakage, which is partly 

a function of the range of retail, commercial and 

institutional services on offer in Karratha. 

Pracsys estimates of floorspace are approximations only 

and it is important to note that Pracsys does not have 

the capacity in its current scope of work to reproduce 

the depth of analysis contained in the dedicated 

Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail and Commercial 

Strategy produced for the Department of Planning (then 

DPI) in July 2009 by SGS Economics & Planning. 

21

22 

2.0 

The SGS report estimated the current supply of retail 

floorspace in Karratha across all categories at 41,000m 2 

of gross lettable floor area (GLFA) and 29,684m 2 of 

commercial/office floorspace across commercial, 

government and institutional uses. The report further 

suggests that by 2020, at a residential population of 

22,795 and FIFO workforce of 2,400 that there will be 

demand for an additional 20,150m 2 of retail across all 

categories and 16,200m 2 of commercial / office space. 

This would mean the provision of a total retail floorspace 

of 61,500m 2 and 45,884m 2 of office / commercial. 

Pracsys high order estimates of retail floorspace suggest 

that for a population of 50,000, and assuming arole 

as a major regional population centre, Karratha may 

require something in the order of 123,444m 2 of total 

retail floorspace including 54,715m 2 of convenience 

retail, 55,711 of comparison retail and approximately 

13,000m 2 of café /restaurant / fast food floorspace. 

Based on the above data between 2009 and 2041 an 

additional 82,444m 2 of retail floorspace will need to be 

provided and for commercial / office floorspace across 

commercial, government and institutional uses an 

additional 33,316m 2 of floorspace. 

In terms of other Planning Land Use Categories (PLUC) 

Pracsys anticipated a requirement for around 63,000m 2 

of general office / commercial space floorspace, 

134,135m 2 of health, welfare and community 

service floorspace and approximately 89,000m 2 of 

entertainment / recreational / cultural floorspace. 

It should be noted that the floorspace estimates are 

exactly that; they do not include provision for areas 

such as car parking, landscaping, set backs and the 

like. At 2006 the existing floorspace of health, welfare 

and community service floorspace is approximately 

16,131m 2 and for entertainment / recreational / cultural 

floorspace 31,355m 2 . Based on these amounts between 

2009 and 2041 an additional 118,004m 2 of health, 

welfare and community service floorspace will need to 

be provided and for entertainment/recreational/ cultural 

floorspace an additional 57,645m 2 . It should be noted 

that the indicated floorspace are estimates only, and are 

based on benchmark floorspace provision in a range of 

Australian regional centres. Pracsys estimates are based 

on 2006 census employment data and cross-referenced 

against the known current provision of floor space in 

Karratha according to PLUC. Floor space projections are 

based on an average per square metre of floor space 

per employees and incorporate employment estimates 

based on aspirational population targets. 

This methodology is a top down approach and diverges 

from the methodology employed in the Karratha Retail 

and Commercial Strategy. 

It is important to note that the demand for floorspace 

other than retail is driven more by the commercial and 

strategic service delivery and resourcing decisions 

of business, companies, government agencies and 

institutions than population effects. These estimates 

are not intended as prescriptive but rather a general 

indication of possible demand for different types of 

floorspace based on scenario modelling. All growth in 

floorspace should occur in line with population growth 

and managed in its distribution. 

The following table summarises the stand-alone Karratha 

floor space data. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 9: Retail and Commercial Floor Space 

(Source: 2020 estimate by SGS Economics & Planning) 

Note: Assumes a residential population of 22,795 and Fly in Fly 

Out population of 2,400. 

A summary of the above floorspace estimates for 

Karratha can be demonstrated as in the following 

chart below. 

Figure 10: Floor Space of All Categories 

(Source: Pracsys) 

Notes: 1. The assumption has been made that Health Welfare 

& Community & Entertainment, Recreational & Cultural office 

space did not increase between 2006 and 2009. 2. Based 

on high order population estimate of 50,000


2.3.3 KEY DRIVERS AND PRESSURES 

KARRATHA FUTURE EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 11: Current and Projected Employment Levels by Employment Category 

(Source: Pracsys) 

 

 

 

RETAIL / CONSUMER SERVICES 

Retail jobs have high transaction intensity and are driven 

by the needs of the local population. Retail tenancies 

must locate in close proximity to their consumer 

catchment, to facilitate the purchase of retail goods 

on a frequent basis. This can be daily or weekly for 

convenience goods such as groceries and newspapers, 

or less frequently for comparison goods such as clothing 

and home wares. Retail is generally concentrated 

within centres with a supermarket anchor, to maximise 

transactions and reduce the number of consumer 

trips required. 

Consumer services also have a high transaction 

frequency and must locate in close proximity to their 

customer base in order to deal directly with them. Like 

retail tenancies, consumer services often locate in 

centres to minimise trip generation and benefit from 

convenience good attractors. Consumer services can 

include real estate agents, travel agents, shoe repair, dry 

cleaning services and beauty salons. 

Retail and consumer services may also include some 

areas of local, state and federal government services 

such as police, education, health, community services 

and the like. These are services that are delivered 

primarily in relation to population driven demand. There 

is some overlap with areas of knowledge intensive areas 

of employment such as those referred to below. 

LOCALISED ECONOMIC ACTIVATION 

Economic activation of a place is determined by the 

frequency and concentration of transactions that occur 

there. The people present at any place at any point in 

time constitute the ‘users’ of the place. The users can 

be characterised as residents, visitors or local workers. 

The population and expenditure base of each group 

forms the economic base of the place and drives the 

commercial vitality of office and retail tenants. 

2.0 

Activating Karratha will involve linking visitor and 

commuter attractors to core activity precincts; 

concentrating retail tenancies to encourage life and 

vibrancy; maximising possible modes of transport for 

easy access; and minimising access routes to channel 

traffic past shop fronts. 

There are six principles of place activation that have 

been developed into a coherent framework to apply to 

urban renewal projects. These principles are outlined 

below. 

1. Purpose of Place: 

Address the question – what does this place 

represent to its target user population (residents, 

workers, visitors)? 

Successful places usually emanate from a single 

point, so establish a core precinct, while the 

periphery will take care of itself; 

Enhance land economics by using design to 

maximise frequency and concentration of 

transactions. 

2. Access – Arrival Points: 

Decisions about access begin 1 – 3km from the 

place. 

Do not allow transport networks to bypass the place 

– does the design funnel people and traffic into the 

core? 

Congestion and mix of transport nodes is good. 

Arrive at the ‘’front door’ of the place, not around the 

back. 

23

24 

2.0 

3. Origins – Car Parking and Transport Nodes: 

Parking is the driver of pedestrian movement; 

Strategic distribution of car parks and transport 

nodes will maximise pedestrian movement; 

− Location is more important than numbers; and 

− Space the car parks around the centre; 

Street parking is important (for commercial areas); 

− Charge no fees; and 

− Relax time limits. 

4. Exposure – Pedestrian Movement: 

Economic activation is driven by frequency and 

concentration of transactions. 

Channel movements; 

− Concentrate transactions by pushing people past 

as many shop windows as possible; and 

− Rents and sales are directly related to pedestrian 

traffic; 

Minimise possible routes from origin to destination 

points (e.g.: car park to main attraction), as 

architectural “permeability” is not always a good 

thing. 

5. Destinations – Major attractions 

Identify main destination – what will bring users into 

the core? 

Assess user behaviour; 

− Number of visits; and 

− Timing of visits (time of day, seasonality); 

Give major destinations special treatment; 

− Understand what they need; and 

− Build centre around them 

Amplify the impact of attractions by creating support 

amenity and infrastructure to maximise frequency, 

length of stay and expenditure. 

6. Control – Strategic Sites 

Tenure control is vital for overall development 

success – which sites (supporting what uses) must 

stay in public ownership; 

Identify active frontages and take control of key sites; 

Corner sites drive uses on either side; 

Not all areas in a place need to be active – be 

selective; and 

Have a plan and stick to it. 

Residents and businesses will be attracted by the 

level of amenity that the Karratha precincts provide. 

Perceptions of amenity vary between and within user 

groups. Residents will be attracted to the precinct for 

many of the reasons cited above. 

Prospective commercial / office and business tenants 

however will have a different perspective on what 

amenity suggests. The convenience of close proximity to 

a train station is one aspect of amenity but it is difficult 

to gauge how important it may be relative to other 

factors such as: 

Affordability, particularly relative to other locations 

within the city; 

Aesthetic amenity (access to views, recreational 

areas, waterfront etc); 

Clustering of like-minded industries and businesses; 

The extent of supporting services and infrastructure; 

Importance of access to supply chains; and 

Proximity to civic functions. 

2.3.4 KEY IMPLICATIONS 

Based on above short fall estimates over the next 

11 years to year 2020 the retail shortfall is 1,831m 2 

average per annum. In the short term this shortfall could 

be met in part by developments proposed at the 9.97 

hectare Tambrey Neighbourhood Shopping Centre and 

Mixed-use site and at part Lot 553 corner Searipple and 

Warambie Roads and the release of development sites in 

the Town Centre. 

The commercial / office space short fall estimate of 

1,472m 2 per annum over the next 11 years to 2020 

could in the short term be easily accommodated in 

whole or part by the release of development sites in 

the Town Centre. Alternatively proposed developments 

such as at the Tambrey Neighbourhood Shopping Centre 

and mixed-use site; part lot 553 corner Cripple and 

Warambie Roads and the release of development sites in 

the Town Centre could assist in meeting the shortfall. 

On the basis that all retail and office space shortfall 

requirements were to be met via development in the 

town centre as part of the Karratha Town Centre 

Revitalisation plan, the following development scenario 

demonstrates the approximate amount of development 

land needed to meet demand: 

Assumptions: 

50% of site coverage for buildings. 

5 Storey heights. 

The total land required to meet all retail and office space 

projections at 2020 and 2041 respectively, would be 

as follows: 

2020 -10,703m2 of development land needed. 

2041 - 20,896m 2 of development land needed. 

If all retail premises shortfall space requirements were 

to be developed on ground floor premises only then 

the following would apply adopting the above 50% site 

coverage ratio: 

2020 - 40,300m2 of development land needed. 

2041 – 164,888m 2 of development land needed. 

2.3.5 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 

Economy Goal 

A robust, diversified local economy that effectively 

services the needs of local and regional industry 

and population. 

Project objectives have been developed which responds 

to meeting the aspirational economic goal, by 

addressing the needs of current state of the economy 

and the driving forces and pressures that will affect 

economic outcomes in the future, and how the economy 

goal is achieved. These project objectives are: 

Improved local business capability to service 

established industry sectors; 

Optimised local employment distribution to meet the 

requirements of industry and population; 

Increased local business and industry diversity; 

Enhanced local business investment and 

entrepreneurial activity; and 

Activated and accessible retail and commercial 

destinations.


2.4 COMMUNITY 


HISTORY 

Part of a region that has been home to the Ngarluma 

and Yindjibarndi people for many generations, 

Karratha is in the centre of land traditionally owned 

by the Jaburara tribe, now extinct. The town’s name 

can be translated as ‘good country’ and comes from 

that of a pastoral station established in 1866, from 

which land was reclaimed for joint government-private 

sector township development in 1968-1969. From its 

beginnings as a purpose-built worker’s colony, Karratha’s 

growth has been inextricably linked with the expansion 

of the resources industry. The town was gazetted in 

1969 and is now the largest centre in the Pilbara. 

DEMOGRAPHICS 

Overview 

Karratha is one of Western Australia’s major regional 

centres, and a hub for mining and gas operations in 

the North West. At the time of the Australian Bureau 

of Statistics’ national census in 2006, it was home 

to 11,728 people, equating to 71% of the Shire of 

Roebourne’s population and 29% of the Pilbara region’s 

population. Population increase over the previous five 

years was 9.3%. The Shire of Roebourne’s estimate of 

its 2009 population was 13,000, with a further 2,000 

fly-in, fly-out workers. 

At present, significant demographic characteristics of 

the Karratha population include: 

High levels of resident turnover and transience, 

mostly due to people accessing work in the town 

while still maintaining a “home base” elsewhere, with 

plans to return there in future years, and also an 

increased proportion of FIFO workers; 

A lower proportion of young people (10-19 years) 

and older people (50 plus years) compared to the 

state average; 

A high cost of living, with major factors being the 

high cost of housing and price escalation when 

goods are transported to the region; 

A high median weekly household income of $2,078 

– double that of regional Western Australia more 

broadly ($1,005) and the Perth metropolitan area 

($1,086) – but significant income disparities within 

the community; and 

A low proportion of owner-occupiers (37%) 

compared to regional Western Australia (66%) and 

Perth (73%). 

Age Structure 

When planning for the provision of housing, community 

facilities and services it is important to consider the 

relatively high proportion of young families that current 

reside within the town. This profile is likely to continue 

in the shorter term as the town continues to grow via a 

resource led economy. However if the City is to have a 

more “normalised” demographic profile then efforts will 

need to be made to encourage great numbers of youth 

(ages 10 – 19 years) and Seniors (50 years and over) to 

reside in the City. 

The current (2006) age structure of residents in 

Karratha is shown in Figure 12. Key points to note 

include: 

Karratha has a similar population age structure 

compared to the Pilbara. 


metropolitan area Karratha has a: 

− High proportion of people aged 0-9 years, 20- 

29, 30-39 years and 40-49 years; 

− Low proportion of people aged 50 plus years; 

and 

− Similar proportion of young people aged 

10-19 years. 

Figure 12: Age Structure, (Source: ABS Census 2006) 

Ethnicity and Birthplace 

Community development planning needs to consider 

the ethnicity and cultural background of the community 

and take steps to seek positive community integration 

of people from various cultures. The degree of ethnic 

diversity is likely to increase in Karratha as overseas 

migrants are sought as skilled labour to supply the 

resource sector growth needs. 

An overview of the current ethnic status within Karratha 

reveals: 

69.7% of Karratha residents are born in Australia, of 

which 6.3% are Indigenous; 

77.5% Karratha residents are Australian citizens; 

80.2% speak English only; and 

The top countries for both ethnicity and birthplace 

(excluding Australia) are England (3.8%), New 

Zealand (3.7%), Philippines (0.9%), India (0.8%) 

and South Africa (0.8%). 

2.0 

Demographic data also reveals that Karratha has a: 

Slightly higher proportion of Australia citizens 

compared to the Pilbara and regional WA; 

Lower proportion of Indigenous residents compared 

to the Pilbara and regional WA; 

Higher proportion of residents that only speak 

English compared to the Pilbara, but a lower 

proportion compared to regional WA; and 

Similar profile of birth countries compared to the 

Pilbara. 

The following tables provide an overview of community 

ethnicity in Karratha: 

Karratha Pilbara Regional 

WA 

Perth 

Metro 

Australian 

Citizen 

77.5% 74.8% 76.0% 82.7% 

Indigenous 6.3% 13.7% 7.3% 1.5% 

Speak 

English Only 

80.2% 72.7% 87.2% 79.9% 

Table 8: Ethnicity (Source: ABS Census, 2006) 

Karratha Pilbara Regional 

WA 

Perth 

Metro 

Australia 69.7% 67.2% 76.0% 61.5% 

England 3.8% 3.3% 6.1% 9.9% 

New Zealand 3.7% 4.0% 2.4% 2.4% 

Philippines 0.9% 0.7% 0.3% 0.4% 

India 0.8% 0.5% 0.2% 1.0% 

South Africa 0.8% 0.8% 0.6% 1.3% 

Table 9: Countries of Birth (Source: ABS Census, 2006) 

25

26 

2.0 

Household Structure and Dwellings 

The spatial planning of Karratha and in particular the 

provision of housing and community facilities needs 

to consider the typical household structures that exist 

within the Karratha community. The existing profile of 

household structures are likely to continue in the shorter 

term as the town continues to grow via a resource 

led economy. However if the City is to have a more 

“normalised” household profile then there will need to 

be a greater number of permanent single residents. This 

may eventuate if there is transference of some fly in fly 

out workers to more permanent residential status. 

The demographic data reveals that in Karratha half 

of all households (51%) are families with children, 

over one quarter (28%) are couples without children, 

17% are lone person households, 4% are group/share 

households and 1% are other families (Figure 13). This 

is a very similar profile to the whole of the Pilbara. 


metropolitan area Karratha has a: 

higher proportion of families with children; and 

lower proportion of lone person households. 

The average household size in Karratha is 2.8 persons; 

in comparison it is 2.9 persons in the Pilbara, 2.6 

persons in regional WA and 2.5 in the Perth metropolitan 

area. 

In Karratha 66% of all dwellings are separate houses, 

19% are semi-detached/row/terrace houses or 

townhouses, 4% are flats, units and apartments and 

12% are other dwellings. In comparison to the Pilbara, 

regional WA and the Perth metropolitan area, 

Karratha has a: 

lower proportion of separate houses; 

higher proportion of semi-detached/row/terrace 

or townhouses; and 

higher proportion of other dwellings. 

Figure 13: Household Structure (Source: ABS Census, 2006) 

Figure 14: Dwelling Types (Source: ABC Census, 2006)


POPULATION MOVEMENT 

Karratha is a highly transient community. Only 29% 

of people surveyed by the Shire of Roebourne in 2008 

indicated that they intend to stay more than ten years, 

38% indicated they intended to stay in the Shire for up 

to five years, 13% intend to stay between six to nine 

years, and 22% were unsure of their intensions. 

INCOME 

The median weekly household income in Karratha is 

$2,078; this is double regional WA ($1,005) and the 

Perth metropolitan area ($1,086) and slightly higher 

than the Pilbara overall ($1,969). 

EDUCATION 

In Karratha 48% of people attending an education 

institution are at primary school, 25% are attending 

secondary school, 9% are at pre-primary school, 16% 

are undertaking further education and 2% are attending 

other education institutions. This profile is very similar 

to the Pilbara and regional WA. Of the residents in 

Karratha who have a post school qualification the 

majority hold a certificate (59%), 22% hold a bachelor 

degree, 14% hold an advanced diploma, 3% hold a 

graduate diploma and graduate certificate and 3% 

hold a post graduate degree. This is a similar profile 

compared to the Pilbara and regional WA. In Perth a 

higher proportion of residents hold a bachelor degree 

and post graduate degree. 

EMPLOYMENT 

Karratha has a total labour force of just over 6,000 

people, of whom 72% are employed full-time, 17% 

are employed part-time, 8% are employed in another 

capacity and 2% are unemployed. Further to this 

approximately 1,100 people aged over 15 years (or 

the equivalent of 16%) in Karratha are not in the 

labour force. 

The labour force in Karratha has a similar make up to 

the Pilbara overall, however, in comparison to regional 

WA and the Perth metropolitan area, Karratha has a: 

Higher proportion of people employed full-time. 

Lower proportion of people employed part-time. 

Lower proportion of people not in the labour force 

(34% in regional WA and 33% in Perth). 

Just over half of all employed residents in Karratha 

are white collar workers (52%); with the remaining 

being blue collar workers (48%). This is the opposite 

of the Pilbara, with 53% being blue collar workers 

and 47% being white collar workers. This difference 

is understandable given that Karratha is the service 

centre for the Shire of Roebourne (one of four local 

governments in the Pilbara). 

Perth and regional WA have a higher proportion of 

white collar workers compared to Karratha and a lower 

proportion of blue collar workers. 

The top five industries of employment of residents in 

Karratha are: 

1. Metal ore mining (8.0%). 

2. School education (5.4%). 

3. Oil and gas extraction (5.4%). 

4. Heavy and civil engineering 

construction (3.8%). 

5. Building installation services (3.0%). 

HOUSING MARKET 

The housing market in Karratha is very different to that 

of Cities such as Perth. There is a high proportion of 

rental properties (62%); 37% are owner occupied and 

1% are classified as ‘other’. This is very similar to the 

rest of the Pilbara, however, very different from regional 

WA and the Perth metropolitan area where the majority 

of properties are owner occupied (66% in regional WA 

and 73% in Perth). The high proportion of rental in 

Karratha and the Pilbara is probably due to the provision 

of housing for resource sector and government services 

workers by their employers. 

In Karratha 25% of all rentals are through a real estate 

agent, 22% are state housing authority rentals and the 

majority 53% are other rentals. This is similar to both 

the Pilbara and regional WA; however, the Pilbara has a 

higher proportion of other rentals (64%). Between the 

June and September quarters in 2009 the average rental 

cost of three and four bedroom properties has increase 

by approximately $200 per week. 

Figure 15: Average House Settlement Price and Sales Karratha (2004 – 2009) 

2.0 

There is a distinct lack of diversity in housing types in 

Karratha with many single people having to share larger 

housing. There is a definite lack of housing available 

in, or close to, the town centre, which impacts on the 

activation of the area. There are limited opportunities 

for transient workers or those residents who only require 

smaller accommodation types to access appropriate 

housing close to their work location and at a cost that is 

affordable. 

The high cost of housing impacts across all aspects 

of the community including attraction and retention 

of staff, cost of living and a barrier to small business 

development. 

Figure 15 below shows the trend of average house 

settlement price and sales in Karratha. As the number 

of sales has decreased the price has increased. 

27

28 

2.0 

TOWN CENTRE COMMUNITY FACILITIES (CURRENT) 

The predominant use of the town centre currently is 

for shopping, with the existing indoor shopping centre 

dominating the town centre area. There is a range 

of other commercial and government services that 

residents access in the town centre including - banks, 

fast food shops, hotels, service stations, speciality 

shops, medical services, car yards, furniture shops and 

government agencies. 

Many of Karratha’s town centre facilities fall short in 

regards to contemporary design and struggle to meet 

current community needs. 

The current spatial design of the town centre is 

dysfunctional with a distinct lack of public open space 

or community facilities. This leads to people driving in 

and driving out of the town centre for single purposes 

such as shopping, rather than visiting the town centre 

for more of a social experience. There currently are no 

defined precincts within the town centre to maximise 

collocation of similar enterprises and there is little or no 

street or town centre space activation. 

The following table (Table 10) provides a review of 

community facilities that exist within the town centre. 

Facility Condition Details 

Aquatic centre Becoming dated and in 

need of refurbishment or 

relocation 

Has water play elements 

Well positioned in centre of town 

Plans have been prepared for redevelopment and possible movement to the 

new “Learning and Leisure” precinct. 

Lotteries House In good condition Collocation of government and non Government agencies 

Catholic Church Church in good condition. 

Aged Care 

Facility 

St Pauls 

Primary School 

Provision of housing for 

Church Minister an issue. 

Centre in reasonable 

condition 

School is on the fringe of 

the town centre. 

School in good condition 

Cinema Cinema closed recently 

due to lack of business. 

Table 10: Town Centre Community Facilities (Current) 

May be potential reused for other community purposes (e.g. developed into a 

youth centre) if the needs of agencies grow and require a large facility 

Roman Catholic Church. 

Opportunity for site to be relocated for new facilities to be developed and land 

redeveloped 

School being upgraded with funds from Federal Government’s Building the 

Education Revolution funding. 

Opportunity to upgrade school oval and open space to interlink with city 

centre and create potential community use in out of school hours 

Site for sale. Likely to be used for other purposes.


COMMUNITY GROUPS AND SERVICES (CURRENT) 

Community services are stretched in Karratha and are 

struggling to meet current demands. Further pressure 

will be brought to bear on these services (particularly 

Non Government services), unless proactive approaches 

are made to support these organisations. 

The provision of community services is significantly 

impacted on by a number of factors including: 

High cost of living – difficulty in attracting and 

retaining staff, particularly Non Government 

Organisations without housing; 

Lack of differential resourcing within agencies that 

recognise the complexities of living in the Pilbara; 

High turnover of staff – impacting on continuity of 

services; 

Shift work and rosters that impact on civic or 

community engagement; and 

Lower levels of volunteerism due to shift work and 

other factors. 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVICES 

The Shire of Roebourne offices and chambers are 

currently located within the town centre. The Shire has 

six main service areas: 

Community development. 

Building. 

Environmental health. 

Rangers 

Planning 

Technical 

GOVERNMENT AND NON GOVERNMENT SERVICES 

There are 28 government (local, state and federal) 

agencies listed as providing services in Karratha and 

there are 19 non-Government Service Agencies. 

A number of these agencies are located within the town 

centre. However the offices are in differing locations 

across the town and not in one precinct. 

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS 

The provision of community groups and associations 

is dominated by sporting and recreation clubs, which 

provide the main avenue for social engagement, through 

engagement in healthy activity. There is limited choice 

outside of sport in regards to community offerings. 

These clubs and organisations currently operate in 

facilities outside of the town centre. 

There are currently 62 sporting clubs registered in town 

for both adults and children. There are also eight (8) 

recreation based clubs, seven (7) community based 

associations or organisations; three (3) playgroups; two 

(2) arts and crafts groups; two (2) army cadets and 

reserves groups and only one (1) registered cultural 

group 

KARRATHA CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY EVENTS 

The number of community events in Karratha is limited 

and is significantly less than a Pilbara Town with a 

similar population such as Port Hedland. 

There are currently no significant events that are 

conducted within the town centre such as 

street festivals. 

The opportunity exists to conduct more community 

events that take advantage of the good weather and 

create a new sense of community excitement about 

the development of Karratha. The Shire could review 

its staff structure to develop an expanded events team 

within the Shire that is supported by Industry that 

provides a range of events for youth, families and the 

broader community. 



The Shire of Roebourne has identified a range of 

community initiatives to be implemented in Karratha 

from 2009 – 2013 in supporting the development of 

community facilities and services. Those of relevance to 

the development of the City Centre include: 

Increasing the attractiveness of the streetscape 

amenity and foster pride in maintaining a higher 

standard of the upkeep of homes, businesses and 

public space throughout the Shire. 

Providing development ready site(s), in conjunction 

with LandCorp and other agencies to enable the 

development of a lifestyle village(s) or other forms of 

housing suitable for, retirees 

Enhancing the sense of community by coordinating a 

range of community events and activities. 

Encouraging engagement of transient workers in 

community/sporting activities. 

Developing youth programs and a plan to improve 

youth program and service delivery. Including: 

− Participating in the “Communities for Children” 

strategy in the implementation of the mobile 

youth hub partnership. 

− Coordinate Youth Advisory Council 

2.0 

− Developing annual program of youth events and 

activities. 

− Progressing the identification of a site within the 

Karratha Town Centre for the development of a 

Youth Centre. 

Develop a community consultation and engagement 

policy and program, external communication policy 

and Shire website. 

Develop strategies and actions to address anti social 

behaviour, graffiti and litter, in partnership with the 

community and key stakeholders. 

Improve in parks and gardens including: 

− Completing an Asset Management Strategy. 

− Completing a significant program for 

refurbishment of major sports fields. 

Improvement of recreational and community facilities 

including: 

− Developing an Asset Management Strategy for 

Shire buildings. 

− Investigating the implementation of a 

community infrastructure contributions policy to 

be applied through the development application 

process. 

− Completing concept design and management 

planning for the Karratha Learning and Leisure 

Precinct. 

− Developing and implement permanent shade 

structures to Shire playgrounds. 

29

30 

2.0 

Improvement in Child Care services and family 

liaison including: 

− Continuing to facilitate the early learning 

specialist scholarship scheme. 

− Continue to promote family day care schemes. 

Enhanced Family Liaison and provision of community 

events including: 

− Partnering with the Communities for Children 

initiative in the delivery of the Community 

Strategic Plan. 

− Actively participating in the Communities for 

Children Consortium. 

− Formalising partnerships with Karratha 

community House 

− Continuing to provide annual and community 

funding to support a variety of family liaison 

initiatives. 

− Working in partnership with all stakeholders to 

provide an annual calendar of community events 

and activities. 

− Formalising the Community Consultation policy. 

Tourism: 

− Assisting both Karratha and Roebourne Visitor 

Centres in the implementation of their business 

and strategic plans. 

− Working in partnership with Australia’s North 

West Tourism to increase awareness through 

marketing West Pilbara as a tourist destination. 

− Evaluating tourism opportunities. 

Continue to work with State Government and other 

non-government agencies to optimise and improve 

Health Services within our communities. Including: 

− Actively lobbying and supporting WA Country 

Health Services. 

− Participating in the reviewing of 

medical services. 


Although Karratha has both natural and economic 

attractions, recent literature on the community points to 

a high level of dissatisfaction with the level of provision 

of services, facilities and amenities. This is particularly 

evident in the current town centre, which is uninviting, 

lacks vibrancy and is pedestrian unfriendly. 

The issues and concerns relating to the Karratha town 

centre have their genesis in the initial developmental 

years of the town, when the town was established 

without a view of permanence and sustainability. It 

appears that over time the planning of facilities, roads 

and services have been ad-hoc and based more on 

expediency to meet a current need, rather than proper 

planning that takes into consideration the need to cater 

for future town growth. 

The current design of the town centre is dysfunctional. 

The layout of facilities, roads, parking and other 

amenities provides an uninviting and hot environment 

where there is a distinct lack of legibility to accessing 

the town centre. All areas of the town centre are 

dominated by vehicular traffic, have little or no 

landscaping or open space, and are dominated by many 

unsightly buildings. As a result the town centre’s design 

actively works against positive community interaction 

and socialisation. 

Growth in the resource industry and associated projects 

will increase pressure on facilities, services and 

amenities in the town centre, so effective planning for 

growth includes the need to urgently address the issues 

related to the town centre. 


The identification of specific challenges and implications 

faced by Karratha consequent to its growth into a city 

is akin to understanding an ecosystem. Aspects of that 

‘ecosystem’ are currently under stress, and analysis 

of existing pressures and imbalances is essential. The 

implications of expansion include increased pressures, 

and alteration of balances. Concomitant with challenges 

are opportunities, and Karratha’s future as a vital city 

of the north hinges on the extent to which change is 

managed and healthy balances achieved. 

The following challenges have been identified in relation 

to the spatial, visual and facility characteristics of the 

current town centre: 

Lack of places for socialising such as town squares, 

community facilities, cafes and restaurants. 

High cost of living, predominantly due to housing 

and accommodation pressure, combined with the 

high cost of goods, which have to be transported 

from larger centres. This impacts on the viability of 

businesses in the town centre. 

Lack of streetscape articulation, with no identifiable 

‘town centre’ (e.g. town square) or entry to the 

town centre. 

Poor signage and directions to the town centre. 

Dominance of cars and car parking over pedestrians 

and pedestrian access ways. 

Hot conditions, due to lack of shade and street 

scaping in a hot climate – leading to an increased 

use of cars 

Lack of active edges to buildings, requiring all 

activity to happen within buildings and not on streets 

or in open spaces. This is particularly the case for 

the large indoor shopping centre. 

Limited permeability or safe routes for pedestrians 

and cyclists, particularly in the areas around the 

Karratha Shopping Centre 

Poor traffic management due to road layout. 

Unsightly and ageing built form. 

Lack of accommodation in the town centre, 

particularly for higher density housing, which 

impacts on the diversity of housing, house pricing 

and a lack of vibrancy in the town centre. 

Unsafe town centre design, with the current town 

layout not reflecting “designing out crime” principles. 

This is evident in poor lighting, lack of passive 

surveillance, poor sight lines, pedestrian unfriendly 

road and path designs and a lack of town centre 

activation through activities and events. 

Concern that current town centre facilities will not 

cope with any anticipated population growth 

in Newman. 

A historical of a lack of community engagement in 

the development of the town centre 

Lack of access to the town centre through 

public transport. 

Lack of facilities or amenities within the town centre 

to cater for tourists. This includes no parking for 

larger vehicles and a lack of retail and 

hospitality services.


Lack of spaces and activities for children and youth 

Limited reflection or celebration of Indigenous or 

Non Indigenous heritage in town centre facilities or 

activities, including a lack of engagement of the 

Aboriginal community in the town centre. 

Limited integration of fly in fly out (FIFO) workers 

into using or living in the town centre. 

While there are existing challenges, which have 

implications for ongoing planning for the development 

of Karratha into a City, there is a range of opportunities 

that can be realised that render the challenges as not 

being insurmountable. Through analysis of Karratha’s 

existing social context, the following opportunities have 

been identified in relation to the development of the 

City Centre: 

Nurturing a sense of community ownership, with 

opportunities for social engagement through the 

development of connected, activated and well 

managed places that act as destination points for all 

sectors of the community; 

Creating a holistic approach to developing and 

governing the City Centre. 

Developing a collective Karratha identity and 

acknowledging and celebrating cultural heritage, in 

the city centre (e.g. through the creation of public 

art; interpretive trails and entries to the town centre 

that articulate distinctiveness and pride); 

Planning for arts and cultural facilities such as 

an outdoor music space, a visual art gallery and 

improved performance art spaces; 

Enhancing community health and well being through 

the provision of public open spaces such as town 

squares; activated streets and community facilities 

such as a community centre and youth centre. 

Cultivating meaningful partnerships and networks 

between City Centre stakeholders, including business 

owners; government agencies, Shire of Roebourne 

and community groups; 

Developing, upgrading and activating community 

spaces and facilities; 

Working to improve affordability, equity and 

accessibility within the City Centre through the 

provision of a variety of high density living, including 

shop top accommodation; 

Encouraging civic responsibility through the 

involvement of non government organisations 

and volunteer hubs/clubs that can operate out of 

community facilities in the town centre; 

Designing and activating community facilities, 

amenities and meeting places in the town centre so 

that they are pedestrian friendly; safe and secure; 

and provide more shade/shelter options. 


Community Goal 

Communities that are safe, healthy, and enjoyable 

places to live and work; offer cultural, educational, 

recreational opportunities; provide appropriate 

housing, services and amenities; foster active 

local citizenship. 


to meeting the aspirational community goal, by 

addressing the needs of current state of the community 

which responds to the current needs and the driving 

forces and pressures that will impact the community 

outcomes in the future, and how the community goal is 

achieved. These objectives are: 

Provision of a full range of community services 

and facilities. 

Affordable accommodation and living. 

Community cohesion, vitality and involvement. 

Strong cross-cultural relationships. 

Acknowledgement of cultural heritage through built 

form, public art, community art and community 

activities. 

Good access to work, services and amenities. 

Community participation in goal setting and decisionmaking 

processes. 

Integration of workforce with local community. 

2.0 

31

32 

2.0 

2.5 ENVIRONMENT 


CLIMATE 

Karratha lies in the West Pilbara region of Western 

Australia, a region that experiences an arid-tropical 

climate with two distinct seasons: a hot summer 

(October to April) and a mild winter (May to September). 

The average yearly evaporation exceeds rainfall by 

as much as 2500 mm per year. Seasonally low and 

unreliable rainfall, together with high temperatures 

and high diurnal temperature variations are also 

characteristic climatic features. Karratha averages more 

than 10 hours of sunshine per day, with a mean annual 

maximum temperature of 32.3C and a mean annual 

minimum temperature of 20.7C. 

Winds in the Karratha area are characterised by 

the seasonal dominance of easterlies in winter and 

westerlies in summer. Average wind speeds in both 

seasons vary from 10 km/hr to 20 km/hr and sustained 

periods of winds to 35 km/hr can occur, particularly 

in winter. The strongest winds, in excess of 300 km/hr, 

occur in association with tropical cyclones. 

The Pilbara coast has one of the highest frequencies 

in Australia, averaging one event every two years. The 

typical cyclone season runs from mid-December to the 

end of April, peaking in February. During the tropical 

cyclone season coastal areas, including Karratha, can 

be subject to storm surge and inundation, which can be 

exacerbated with coinciding high tides. 

 

 

Calm 1% 

Figure 16: 9am Prevailling wind (Source: BoM) 

 

 

Calm * 

Figure 17: 3pm Prevailing wind (Source: BoM) 

N 

NW NE 

W 

E 

N CALM km/h 

CALM 

>= 10 and < 20 

>= 30 and < 40 

>= 0 and < 10 

>= 20 and < 30 

>= 40 

SW SE 

S 

30% 

20% 

10% 

N 

NW NE 

W 

E 

N CALM km/h 

CALM 

>= 10 and < 20 

>= 30 and < 40 

>= 0 and < 10 

>= 20 and < 30 

>= 40 

SW SE 

S 

10% 

20% 

30% 

Figure 18: Mean minimum temperature (Source: BoM) 

Figure 19: Mean maximum temperature (Source: BoM) 

Figure 20: Mean rainfall (Source: BoM) 

Date Time Refraction Azimuth Altitude 

21/06/2009 09:00:00 00o02’03” 49o32’36” 25o18’28” 21/06/2009 12:00:00 00o00’57” 4o43’14” 45o43’11” 21/06/2009 14:00:00 00o01’40” 315o24’35” 30o13’24” 21/12/2009 09:00:00 00o00’36” 102o44’40” 45o58’46” 21/12/2009 12:00:00 00o00’04” 138o21’42” 86o19’56” 21/12/2009 15:00:00 00o00’47” 257o55’54” 50o49’47” Table 11: Sun angles (Source: UDLA)


NATURAL ENVIRONMENT 

Existing information indicates the presence of a 

moderate to high Acid Sulphate Soils risk area to 

the north of the town centre. Acid Sulphate soils in 

this region are present as four main soil types, which 

constitute the Karratha Townsite. They are abbreviated 

as Qpc, Qps, Qa, Qp and are described below with their 

corresponding native vegetation types: 

Qpc – Brown cracking clay (gilgai) overlying bedrock 

(and/or caicrete). The unit is mainly silty clay, which 

develops areas of “gilgai” (crabholes). These Qpc soils 

are self mulching, which under undisturbed conditions 

protects them from water loss and the concentration 

of salts at the surface. Dominated by Neverfail Grass 

(Eragrostis setifolia) with the drainage lines consisting 

mainly of Wandarrie Grass (Eriachne spp), which tends 

to favour the depressions and lower drainage lines. 

Pockets of Snakewood (Acacia xiphophylla) and other 

Acacia spp occurs further inland. 

Qps – Red, brown, stony, medium textured colluvial soils 

overlying calcrete or bedrock. It is mainly clayey silt with 

variable proportions of sand and gravel. This soil unit 

is usually covered with Soft Spinifex (Triodia pungens), 

Ribbon Grass (Chrysopogon fallax), and an upper storey 

of Kanji (Acacia pyritolia). 

Qa – Narrow alluvial deposits confined to the creek 

systems. Generally associated with Coolibah (Eucalyptus 

coolabah) and Riverine Wattle (Acacia coriacea) and a 

variable layer of other Acacia spp. Also comprises the 

introduced Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris). 

Qp – Consists of calcareous coastal dunes.1 On the 

seaward slope of the foredune, grasses (e.g. Whiteochloa 

airoides) usually dominate and are gradually replaced 

by Soft Spinifex (Triodia pungens) landwards. The 

introduced species Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) 

1 A Study of Alternative Sites for Equestrian/Hobby Farm Development in the 

Karratha Area. B. Kok. July 1984. 

and Kapok Bush (Aerva javanica) may replace the native 

species in disturbed situations. Stunted specimens of 

Riverine Wattle (Acacia coriacea) may also be found on 

the coastal dunes. 2 

Most of the coastal plain is covered by the Qpc and Qps 

units and occasionally bisected by the Qa unit near the 

creek lines. The Qpc (clayey) soil allows salt build-up 

due to poor permeability whereas the Qps (silty) soils, 

with a higher permeability, are leached by rainwater and 

recharge more readily. 3 

Soil tests indicate that the soil does not require special 

treatment to sustain any ‘normal temperate’ or 

‘tropical’ plants. 4 

No Declared Rare Flora or Threatened Ecological 

Communities are recorded in the town centre. 

DESCRIBING THE ENVIRONMENT 

Physical Environment 

2 A Study of Alternative Sites for Equestrian/Hobby Farm Development in the 

Karratha Area. B. Kok. July 1984. 

3 Karratha Area Development Strategy. Western Australian Planning 

Commission. April 1998. 

4 ibid. 

Quaternary (1.8 Ma – Present) marine or estuarine 

sediments, predominantly confined to coastal lowlands 

(elevations generally below 5 m AHD). Within these 

sediments, the majority of soils that present an 

environmental risk are generally confined to Holocene 

aged material (

34 

2.0 


COASTAL VULNERABILITY 

Available surge information was reviewed to provide an 

initial and approximate estimate of extreme water levels 

to be considered for development along the Karratha 

coastline. This figure is based on the storm surge level 

of 6.3 m AHD established by the Bureau of Meteorology 

and predictions of possible sea level rise of 1.1 m by 

2100 by the Commonwealth Department of Climate 

Change. 

Until the results of a more detailed assessment are 

available, the City Centre Master Plan has adopted 7.7m 

AHD as an interim figure for high water level events. 

Further study is required to better understand the 

potential effects on extreme water and event levels on 

Karratha in order to develop site-specific adaptation and 

mitigation strategies for coastal and inland development. 

This should also make specific reference to the Karratha 

City Centre. 


Population increase, industrial and commercial growth, 

and associated increases in transport, energy and 

water use are the key driving forces affecting the natural 

environment in the Pilbara generally and Karratha 

specifically. 

These drivers exert direct pressures on the environment, 

which can be divided into three main types: (i) excessive 

use of environmental resources, (ii) changes in land 

use, and (iii) emissions (of chemicals, waste, radiation, 

noise) to air, water and soil. 

The effects of climate change are particularly relevant 

to the Pilbara, given the potential for sea level rise in 

coastal locations and increased frequency of intense 

cyclonic activity. 

2.5.4 KEY FINDINGS AND IMPLICATIONS 

The key environmental challenges for the Karratha city 

centre in accommodating an increased population 

include: 

Exposure of unknown potential or actual acid 

generating soils resulting from ground-disturbing 

activities associated with land development; 

Drainage and flooding associated with natural 

drainage paths that run either adjacent to or through 

the city centre; 

The implications for storm surge combined with sea 

level rise on city centre development. 


Environment Goal Local, regional and global ecosystems 

in which landform, habitat and biodiversity are 

retained and that provide natural provisioning, regulating 

and cultural services. 


to meeting the aspirational environmental goal, by 

addressing the needs of current state and the driving 

forces and pressures that will affect environmental 

outcomes in the future, and how the environment goal is 

achieved. These project objectives are: 

Protection of significant natural landform; 

Protection of significant native vegetation and 

habitat; 

Prevention of pollution and erosion from stormwater; 

Retention of predevelopment water balance; 

Reduced nett per capita carbon emissions; 

Minimal waste to landfill; 

Best practice recovery and reuse of materials; 

High levels of air quality; and 

Acceptable noise levels.


2.6 BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC REALM 

This sections outlines key elements of the physical 

and non-physical attributes of built environment 

and public realm. The analysis has been divided 

into four basic urban design elements: Connection, 

Activity, Built Form and Public Realm, which have 

been reflected in later stages of the report to enable 

comparisons to be drawn between the current and 

future situation in a consistent manner. 

2.0 

35

36 

2.0 


CONNECTION 

Poor accessibility, confusing orientation and difficulty in 

finding the way around are key issues within Karratha’s 

town centre. Ability to find the way around the town 

centre is problematic in two ways. Firstly, entry from 

Dampier Road is unclear and confusing. Secondly, the 

shopping or community ‘heart’ is difficult and unintuitive 

to locate, with a disappointing sense of arrival. 

Movement in the town centre is presently reliant on 

knowledge of routes rather than the ability to intuitively 

find the way towards the heart or the various activities 

that occur within it. 

There is little distinction between car parks, access 

ways and gazetted roads within the Town Centre. This 

is particularly characteristic of the main shopping area 

bounded by Warambie Road, Hedland place, Welcome 

Road and Sharpe Avenue. Compounding this issue, east 

west passage across this area is limited to: 

an internalised private mall; 

car parks and roads surrounding the shopping 

centre; and 

informal access way north of the shopping centre, 

which is only accessible to pedestrians, although 

carries little pedestrian amenity. 

With limited permeability and little evidence of 

interrelationships occurring between uses within this 

area, car parking is the main unifying element in this 

area. Furthermore, connection to the surrounding 

residential districts is also limited with access primarily 

from Dampier Road, Balmoral Road or Searipple Road. 

The town centre is dominated by cars and 

car parking. 

Buildings are generally separated from 

street by car parks. 

Poor pedestrian accessibility with low 

quality footpaths and low levels of shading. 

Balmoral Rd 

Location of Town Centre is unclear with 

Searipple 

little for people to do or see. 

Rd 

Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 21: Poor structure within the Town Centre limits is 

confusing and lacks permeability. The movement system is 

illogical in many areas and difficult to interpret in terms of its 

hierarchy. 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 23: East west connection through the town centre is 

limited to peripheral roads such (Dampier Road and Warambie 

Road) and Welcome Road, all of which are of poor pedestrian 

quality. 

Searipple Rd 

Searipple Rd 

Balmoral Rd 

Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 22: Finding the centre of Town is difficult and 

disappointing upon arrival. The geographical centre is generally 

three turns form a major road. 

Figure 24: Large street blocks encourage sprawled 

development forms that provide a limited relationship with the 

public realm and low permeability. 

Searipple Rd


ACTIVITY 

Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 25: There is a large amount of inactive street frontage 

(blue) in the Town Centre compared to active or interesting 

frontage (red). 

Activities within the existing Centre are generally 

interspersed, favouring vehicle movement rather 

than integration for a quality pedestrian experience 

hampering the sense of progression through the 

town centre for both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. 

Poor connectivity between land uses in the town 

centre in conjunction with an uninteresting pedestrian 

environment and a hot and arid climate, customers tend 

to drive between each of these areas further contributing 

to the need for more parking and adversely impacting on 

the aesthetics of the Town Centre. 

Searipple Rd 

Vast separation distances exsits between 

activities due to large unshaded car parks 

Predominance of internalised shopping 

mall style development 

The Karratha Town Centre suffers from a lack of 

precinct-based agglomeration of land uses, with 

anecdotal accounts suggesting that the primary basis for 

the choice in location of business is availability rather 

than suitability of premises or land. This is particularly 

evident in the dispersal of complementary land uses 

such as restaurants, cafes, taverns and bars that would 

otherwise co-locate to form a town heart. Land uses 

within the Town are arranged as large cells of land with 

limited formal structure in which buildings are generally 

surrounded by unshaded car parking, evident within the 

area of land bounded by Welcome Road, Searipple Road, 

Hedland Place, Warambie Road and Sharpe Avenue, 

which is the focal point of activity within the Centre. 

The limited diversity in built form does not adequately 

provide for the specific needs of many businesses. The 

limited supply of premises further compounds this 

situation. A town centre survey undertaken in November 

2009 highlighted examples such as the mixing of uses 

such as restaurants and vehicle service and sales within 

the Town Centre, which is evident of the effects of these 

pressures within the Town Centre. 

Lack of suiable premeses for 

many activities. 

The most significant development in terms of scale in 

the Karratha Town Centre is Centro’s Karratha shopping 

centre containing Coles, Target Country, Kmart and 

over 60 smaller specialty tenancies in an internalised 

shopping mall type development. The centre, with a floor 

space in excess of 24,000m 2 , takes up approximately 

8 hectares of land on the northeast corner of Welcome 

Road and Sharpe Avenue, including the extensive car 

parks adjacent to the Shopping Centre. 

Located at the southern end of town centre are a 

number of civic and community uses such as the Shire 

offices and the Catholic Church and a significant area 

of underdeveloped land adjacent to the northern side of 

Dampier Road. On the western edge of town abutting 

Balmoral Road, there are a number of low intensity 

support/service/retail business such as a car yard, 

service station and showrooms such as Harvey Norman. 

The northern portion of Town Centre is largely currently 

vacant, but a significant portion has been earmarked 

for 100 service worker accommodation units, whilst two 

mixed-use lots will also be provided to abut Warambie 

Road adjacent to this site. 

Limited synergy between 

various activities 

2.0 

Retail uses are generally focused within an enclosed 

shopping centre, with a focus on franchise-style 

shopping with no existing provision of a well-executed 

main street. Whilst there are a number of restaurants, 

bars and taverns within the Karratha Town Centre, these 

are generally located within resort or campus-style 

developments rather than along street frontages. 

A prevalence of franchise style takeaway, delivery and 

‘drive thru’ foods is also evident, rather than a diverse 

range of independent hospitality based alternatives. 

Office uses such as banks and government agencies are 

generally located towards the east of the Town Centre 

between the Centro Shopping Centre and Searipple 

Road and within more recent developments on Degrey 

Place. Civic uses such as the Shire of Roebourne offices, 

St Paul’s Church, the Karratha Licensing Centre and 

Karratha Magistrates Court are then all situated towards 

the southern end of the Town Centre between Dampier 

and Welcome Roads. 

37

38 

2.0 

Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 26: Buildings are generally setback from the street and 

surrounded by car parking. 

BUILT FORM 

Assessment of built form throughout the town centre 

indicates a predominance of shed-like structures that 

have a poor relationship with the street. Buildings are 

generally set well back from the street as required by 

current Council policies, with car parking provided 

within close proximity to buildings, usually separating 

the building from the street edge. The absence of 

quality landscaping in most instances results in a 

wider streetscape and inhospitable business frontage. 

Buildings are generally one or two storeys with a 

harsh interface with the public realm through the 

poorly considered location of doors and windows and 

safety protection measures for cyclone events. This is 

compounded by large expanses of hot unshaded asphalt 

surfaces, resulting in an inhospitable public realm with a 

lack of streetscape interest and comfort for pedestrians. 

Searipple Rd 

High incidence of blank facades High incidence of placeless buildings Poor Relationship between buildings and 

public realm 

Buildings generally have a temporary ‘interim’ feel and 

there is a prevalence of rational construction methods 

of poor visual quality. Apart from newer buildings 

such as the Shire offices and the recently constructed 

Police Station, there is little consideration for climate 

responsive design principles or potential for reuse of 

buildings over time. Contrary to contemporary best 

practice, there is no evidence of mixed-use development 

or the inclusion of residential uses within the 

Town Centre. 

Most significantly, few buildings in Karratha exhibit a 

Karratha style or local identity, with the great majority 

of buildings throughout the Town Centre characterised 

as placeless and utilitarian. Buildings in the Karratha 

town centre are generally reliant on mechanical air 

conditioning systems rather than the employment of 

climate responsive design elements, which is contrary to 

best practice. 

Few examples of buildings that provide a 

sense of place


Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 27: Minimal distribution of public open space in the 

existing Town Centre. 

PUBLIC REALM 

The town centre is characterised by a poor quality 

pedestrian environment. Currently, the public realm is 

dominated by isolated building structures sitting amid 

expanses of unshaded asphalt car parking, is lacking 

in footpaths, street trees, and signage and is deficient 

in outdoor places that promote community interaction 

or leisure opportunities. The poorly designed public 

domain offers little competition to air-conditioned 

private spaces. This results in a Town Centre that offers 

little opportunity for outdoor civic oriented activities 

to occur within the public domain with any degree of 

comfort or amenity that would otherwise provide a sense 

of attraction to outdoor public places. 

Within the town centre, buildings generally have a 

poor relationship with the street, where large setbacks 

and car parks separate retail activities from the street 

edge. The existing undefined and inactive street system 

increases illegibility, whilst expansive car parks result in 

a hot, unshaded and inhospitable public realm, which is 

not conducive to community interaction and public life. 

Searipple Rd 

Vast unshaded car park associated with 

main mall 

Large unshaded distances between 

opposite sides of Sharpe Avenue 

Large building setbacks and car parks generally form the 

street frontage and pedestrians crossing streets must 

broach wide, often hot, unshaded spaces. Combined 

with the internalisation of commerce and retail activity, 

the pedestrian environment in Karratha is a place 

to avoid. 

Large expanses of blank building facades contribute to 

a dull, arduous, and often harsh town centre experience. 

This provides little comfort or amenity for pedestrians 

within the streetscape. Instead, the focus of activity is 

the mall, which is not conducive to the creation of a 

vibrant and democratic public realm. At night, following 

the close of the mall, town centre activity is limited to 

takeaway food chain outlets, the bottle shop, restaurant, 

and introspective campus-style hotels. 

Public spaces in Karratha tend to focus primarily on the 

provision of sporting grounds for the pursuit of active 

recreational opportunities. While sporting is a very 

popular pastime in Karratha, there is a discrepancy in 

the availability of comfortable spaces suitable for more 

passive recreation such as a plazas or intimate shady 

public places, providing limited opportunity for meeting 

places or for public gathering. 

Landscape associated with Karratha Village 

with singular high quality specimen tree – 

Poinciana 

The absence from the town centre of soft landscape, 

shade, pedestrian pavements, and pedestrian 

amenity, accompanied by blank building facades and 

uninteresting built forms results in an alien and harsh 

town centre experience and reinforces the current 

preference for use of the internalised, non-public ‘mall’. 

An audit of the current ‘soft’ landscape within the town 

centre comprises a list of trees and palms in variable 

conditions. There are several examples of high quality 

tropical trees and palms particularly the Poinciana 

variety (Delonix regia) within the town centre, but very 

few native specimens. 

Examples of high quality specimen trees and palms 

generally occur in isolation or within private properties 

(e.g. palm plantings associated with the All Seasons 

Hotel). As a result, the consistent shade and vertical 

relief within the public realm is minimal, however, the 

adaptation of trees to the Karratha climate is evident 

and is encouraging for future public realm 

landscape design. 

2.0 

There are also many marginal tree specimens (eg. along 

the medians of Sharpe Avenue), which detract from 

the few high quality specimens within the town centre. 

Ground coverage and shrub bed development is very 

poor to nonexistent with the exception of the landscape 

associated with the Karratha Village complex. While this 

shrub planting does have structure, it inhibits the use of 

this open space for pedestrians due to its location. 

Drainage lines are a key feature of the Town Centre and 

are underutilised in their potential as public places. 

The two drainage corridors (creek lines) to the west of 

Sharpe Avenue within the Town Centre have areas of high 

quality native vegetation (southern corridor sections) 

indigenous to the waterways of the West Pilbara. Other 

areas have been cleared and channelised (northern 

corridor sections) and are now dominated by weeds. At 

present, these creek lines address the purely utilitarian 

drainage requirements of the area and currently there 

has been no attempt to incorporate them into the 

environmental, cultural, social, or recreational amenities 

of the town centre. 

39

40 

2.0 

High quality riparian fringing vegetation of the southern 

drainage corridor area – Town Centre 

Cleared and channelised northern drainage corridor – 

Town Centre (Source. UDLA) 

Specific opportunities identified within the town centre 

public realm include the potential to: 

foster current community interest in the ongoing 

design process of the town centre; 

develop a direct pedestrian access route from the 

town centre (as well as strong visual link) to the 

Salt Shakers Lookout / water tanks (This location 

provides a good overview of the town centre and 

marks the beginning of the Jaburara Heritage Trail 

offering opportunities to bring focus to the cultural 

and natural heritage of the town); 

rehabilitate the creek lines adjacent the town 

centre and thereby restore their potential to provide 

ecological, recreational, cultural and educational 

significance to the town centre; 

contrast the natural landscape of the creek lines with 

the new urban nature of the Main Street and other 

town centre streets; 

Figure 28: Knitting the Town Centre together with its 

surrounding population and features is a key opportunity for 

the enhancement of the public realm. 

include existing, isolated high quality trees into the 

new public realm plan; and 

capture views to the Hills along north/south oriented 

streets. 

Specific challenges in the Town Centre include: 

Overcoming the harsh effect hot summer climate 

within the public realm to provide outdoor space that 

is attractive even during the hottest months 

Providing sufficient shade through landscaping 

elements such as trees and shade structures 

Improving the balance between vehicle and 

pedestrian orientated public spaces and providing 

a greater variety of pedestrian places, amenity and 

connections 

Utilising vacant sites to accommodate community 

and cultural services and facilities; 

Figure 29: The visual connection to the surrounding 

environment such as the Karratha Hills has the potential to 

enhance Karratha’s ‘Sense of Place’. 

Promoting passive surveillance of public spaces 

through building design and greater activity within 

the public realm; 

Providing a comfortable and viable outdoor 

alternative to complement the private internalised 

shopping mall. 

Providing a coordinated approach to the development 

of quality public areas, 

Enhance drainage corridors as nature promenades 

providing for a variety of outdoor activities and 

pedestrian connections. 

Figure 30: Existing drainage networks may be further 

developed into an amenity for the town.



A small number of projects and planning initiatives are 

currently being undertaken in the town centre, however, 

it is important to note that the majority of these are in 

response to the pressures currently experienced within 

the town centre such as high living costs and policy that 

is inhibitive to the development of a quality pedestrianbased 

urban environment. 

LEISURE LEARNING PRECINCT 

Whilst the Leisure and Learning Precinct is planned for 

a site outside of the Town Centre, the proposal for this 

facility includes aquatic facilities, which may result in the 

relocation of existing Aquatic Centre on Sharpe Avenue. 

Whilst this matter has yet to be resolved by the Shire, 

should relocation occur, this will make available the large 

strategically located land parcel at the northern end of 

Sharpe Avenue. 

SERVICE WORKERS ACCOMMODATION 

LandCorp is currently committed to providing 100 

residential units for service workers to ease housing 

pressure for low-income workers, who find it difficult 

to compete with highly paid mining workers for 

accommodation, located at the north eastern end of 

Warambie Road. Whilst the majority of the site will 

contain accommodation, for the remainder of the site 

area, two mixed-use sites abutting Warambie Road are 

also proposed. 

Whilst the project will assist in addressing pressure 

points in accommodation, the service workers 

accommodation is not considered an appropriate 

long-term use for the Town Centre but will provide a 

substantial land bank to accommodate substantial 

projects commensurate with a diversified city centre. 

TOWN CENTRE SCHEME AMENDMENT 

A scheme amendment is currently under the 

consideration of the Shire of Roebourne to establish 

a more desirable planning framework for the Karratha 

Town Centre. This will enable development forms 

commensurate of a City Centre with active street 

frontages and better relationship between buildings and 

the public realm. The amendment will encourage mixeduse 

development and greater diversity within the City 

Centre. 

It should be noted that the purpose of this is 

amendment is to relieve existing pressures that currently 

inhibit development forms that are consistent with 

contemporary best practice in the short term. It is 

anticipated that the Karratha City of the North Plan will 

inform a broader review of the Scheme in due course. 

TOWN CENTRE POLICY 

A Town Centre Policy is also under the consideration 

of the Shire to provide detailed guidance for 

development within the town centre. The policy focuses 

on establishing a precinct based approach to activity 

within the town centre and will encourage improved 

interrelationships between activities. 


Based on the current situation, the key drivers and 

pressures associated with the Karratha town centre are 

outlined as follows: 

Mixed-use development is not currently listed as a 

permitted use within the Town Centre. Amendment 

to the existing scheme and policy framework will 

be required;Promoting mixed-use development in 

a format that does not compromise the street level 

business environment purely residential development 

should be avoided; 

Large expanses of car parking resulting from 

unintegrated land use patterns through inability 

for complementary uses to share parking need to 

be addressed through comprehensive car parking 

strategy and review of car parking standards 

throughout the City Centre; 

Single houses (one dwelling on a lot) or grouped 

dwelling (more than one dwelling but side by side) 

are not considered to represent the level of intensity 

required in a City Centre of 50,000+ people, which 

may have an impact on the location of existing 

residential uses such as the aged persons dwellings 

and service worker accommodation in the medium to 

long term. 

Amendment to the Scheme will be required to shift 

current development paradigms of large areas of 

single land uses top achieve nil or reduced setbacks; 

awnings or shade structures over footpaths; active 

uses on the ground floor with surveillance; screened 

parking; short term on-street parking and quality 

landscaping of road and drainage reserves to 

enhance the Karratha Town Centre; 

2.0 

In amending the planning framework for the Karratha 

Town Centre, it is noted that other Town Centre zones 

in Roebourne, Wickham, Dampier and Point Samson 

that also have a Town Centre Zone would also be 

affected if changes to the Town Centre provisions 

were proposed. 


The car dominated illegible streetscapes and 

inhospitable character of Karratha’s Town Centre is 

largely reflective of the current Shire of Roebourne 

planning framework for the Karratha Town Centre, 

where density is capped under the Scheme at a 

maximum of R40 and policies require car parking to be 

between the building and the street; and limit site cover 

to a maximum of 70% and limit plot ratio to a maximum 

of 2.0. These controls limit the potential of development 

in the existing Town Centre zone, thus inhibiting ‘main 

street’ type development from occurring, which is 

focussed on enhancing the public domain to create 

clearly legible streets, active streetscapes, connectivity, 

enhanced pedestrian environments, safety and security. 

Built form within the Town Centre also does not 

presently cater for mixed-use development or the 

inclusion of residential uses, which is contrary to 

contemporary best practice. Multiple Dwellings (one 

dwelling located above, or partially above, another 

dwelling) are currently classed as an ‘SA’ use in a Town 

Centre Zone under the Scheme which is a use that is not 

permitted unless Council grants planning approval after 

advertising the proposal. 

41

42 

2.0 

CONNECTION 

Poor structure within the Town Centre where 

buildings are disconnected form the street edge 

and surrounded by large expanses of unshaded car 

parking 

Poor pedestrian amenity, where lack of pedestrian 

infrastructure is compounded by large areas of hot 

unshaded asphalt 

Poor sense of arrival from Dampier Road, which is 

unclear and confusing. 

Movement throughout the Town Centre is unintuitive 

and relies on knowledge rather than an intuitive 

understanding. 

The shopping centre and lack of connections inhibit 

east west passage through the Town Centre. 

ACTIVITY 

A lack of precinct-based agglomeration of land 

uses within the Town Centre, which is evident in the 

dispersal of complementary land uses. 

Limited diversity, efficiency and vibrancy of activity 

within the Town Centre and the dominance of 

franchise type land uses 

Limited integration between land uses reducing 

the potential for synergies to occur between 

complementary activities. 

Limited provision of residential type uses in the Town 

Centre with no vertical mixed-use development 

BUILT FORM 

Buildings lack design quality and a sense of 

permanence. 

Few buildings in the town centre exhibit a Karratha 

style or local identity 

Little consideration for climatic design principles 

resulting in excessive reliance on air conditioning 

Large expanses of blank facades, limited relationship 

with the public realm, contributing to a dull, arduous 

and harsh town centre experience. 

Limited diversity and inappropriate residential for 

provisions for a City Centre environment 

PUBLIC REALM 

Poor quality pedestrian environment with a lack of 

footpaths, street trees, and signage, and outdoor 

places that discourage community interaction or 

leisure opportunities. 

Harsh and inhospitable public realm due to expansive 

unshaded car parks and paved surfaces resulting in a 

hot and inhospitable public realm. 

Undefined and inactive street system adds to a sense 

of illegibility and inactivity on street networks. 

Lack of comfortable spaces such as plazas or 

intimate shady public places provide limited 

opportunities for meeting places or for public 

gathering. 

The absence of soft landscape in the town centre and 

shade trees in streets and public places. 

Drainage lines are a key feature of the Town Centre 

and are underutilised as public places. 

There is lack of inclusive and culturally relevant 

public places. 


Built Environment & Public Realm Goal 

An urban form that reflects the intrinsic qualities of 

the site context, characteristics and relationships and 

complements the natural environment; with centres that 

are vibrant, dynamic, diverse and functional. 

Project objectives have been developed which respond 

to the current state of the built environment and 

public realm and the driving forces and pressures 

that will affect achieving the desired future outcomes 

and realising the goal. The objectives for the built 

environment and public realm are: 

Increased net development density. 

A place based response that reflects the climate, 

context and site. 

Management strategies for climate change and 

natural disasters. 

An integration of uses that achieves functionality, 

efficiency and compatibility. 

Connectivity at local, district and regional scale. 

A network and hierarchy of streets and public spaces 

that provides permeability and legibility. 

An integrated movement network that ensures the 

safe movement of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles. 

A diverse mix of uses, buildings and housing types. 

High quality well designed buildings that reflect the 

site context. 

A variety of well defined open spaces. 

An accessible and legible city centre destination.


2.7 INFRASTRUCTURE 


INFRASTRUCTURE 

Physical Development 

Earthworks 

The ground conditions in Karratha are typically a layer 

of rocky gravelly clayey material overlaying rock at depth 

of approximately 1 to 2 m below ground surface level. 

The depth to rock beneath the surface tends to decrease 

as the location gets closer to the hills. 

Existing development earthworks levels have been driven 

by balancing major design requirements of: 

Lot elevations and road levels being sufficient to 

allow for major storm event flood routing 

Quantity of imported fill material being minimized 

Depth of services excavation in rock being minimized 

Typically the development of the existing townsite has 

progressively required the importation of significant 

quantities of imported fill materials. Fill material for 

bulk earthworks has generally been sourced from local 

cut to fill and borrow pits about the townsite. Current 

development rates are exhausting current sources, which 

are constrained in size by the layer depth of suitable 

material and extraction lease areas. The expansion of 

extraction lease areas is constrained by their location in 

areas adjacent to crown land subject to Native Title and 

Heritage constraints. 

The clay content of the typical soils in Karratha exhibit 

varying degrees of shrink – swell characteristics, that 

are catered for within the structural detailing of building 

footings and structural elements. This combined with 

the cyclonic wind loads results in substantial additional 

building costs. The subsurface rock potentially provides 

a sound substrate for piled footings typically required for 

multi storey development. 

As outlined in Section 2.5.2 a minimum lot level of RL 

7.7m AHD has been adopted for the City Growth Plan 

in relation to storm surge and global warming sea level 

rise. The northern sector of the City Centre Masterplan 

area will particularly require substantial fill to achieve 

adequate occupation levels. 

Stormwater 

Karratha is located in a region subject to intense rainfall 

associated with severe tropical cyclones. This together 

with the high soil clay content results in extreme storm 

water runoff flow rates occurring during rainfall. 

To accommodate the high storm water flow rates 

individual property levels are typically graded to direct 

stormwater towards the adjacent roadways, which in 

turn by open gutter flow convey flow to appropriately 

positioned open drains and creek lines. Piped drainage 

systems typically do not have sufficient capacity to 

convey the required flow rates. The current town centre 

includes large sealed pavement areas, which do not have 

direct connection to the nearby open drains, resulting 

in significant sheet flow over car park and pavement 

surfaces. Increased amenity during storm events of a 

minor nature may be achieved by the installation of box 

culverts below surface level to convey flows directly to 

drainage corridors. 

Large areas of vacant land exist about drainage lines 

through the current Karratha town centre. Drainage 

design for the townsite has occurred on a part-by-part 

basis utilising conventional drainage design methods 

outlined in Australian Rainfall and Runoff, current at the 

time of design. Significant advances in drainage design 

methods utilizing two dimensional drainage modeling 

have occurred since then, which would potentially allow 

optimization of drainage requirements. 

Existing low points in road pavements discharge overland 

stormwater flow to drainage lines and depressions in 

vacant land. Future development of vacant parcels of 

land requires the accommodation of existing natural 

and constructed flood routes. Subject to confirmation 

of stormwater drainage flow capacities by drainage 

modeling, potential exists for the minor rerouting of 

some drains through the proposed City Centre Precinct 

to optimize land use. 

Our preliminary examination of the existing town centre 

precinct indicates that the current road and drainage 

layout does not appropriately cater for the conveyance 

of larger 1 in 100 year ARI storm events in accordance 

with current standards. The future configuration of 

Sharpe Avenue will require particular attention to ensure 

conveyance of larger storm events. 

During periods of high rainfall, often associated with 

cyclonic events, there are areas within Karratha that are 

prone to inundation and flooding. There is currently 

significant conjecture as to the adopted minimum 

development level in relation to building approvals and 

evacuation of low lying areas during significant storm 

events, as policies and development levels have 

evolved over time. 

Service Utilities 

2.0 

Power 

Horizon Power is the operator of the Pilbara Power 

Supply Grid. This grid is partially interconnected by 

high voltage power transmissions lines owned by both 

Horizon Power and mining companies. 

Ultimately Horizon Power is planning to create a high 

voltage ring main grid about the Pilbara, with a separate 

generation facility in Port Hedland to create a redundant 

network that could accommodate the potential 

disruption of supply from one of its sources due to the 

impact of tropical cyclones. 

Horizon Power’s current power grid electricity supply 

from Rio Tinto Iron Ore power generation facilities 

will shortly cease. In March 2010 Horizon Power will 

commence commissioning a new gas fired power station 

(2 x 43MW turbines) located at its Stovehill Road Depot 

Site. This power generation facility has been designed to 

be modular for future expansion as required. 

The Karratha townsite and town centre power high 

voltage supply scheme is a 11kV network of a 

combination of underground and overhead power cables 

fed from zone substations located on Millstream Road in 

Bulgarra and Dampier Highway in Millars Well. 

The localities of Bulgarra, Pegs Creek, Millars Well 

and the majority of Nickol together with the Karratha 

Industrial Estate are currently serviced by overhead 

power lines. 

Currently the majority of 11kV high voltage overhead 

and underground feeder cables about the townsite are 

at capacity. The majority of power supply requests 

currently require the installation of new feeder cables 

back to the existing zone substations. 

43

44 

2.0 

In order to substantially increase the high voltage power 

supply network within the townsite Horizon Power has 

secured funding to upgrade the network to 22kV. This 

will effectively double the capacity of the high voltage 

cable infrastructure about the townsite. 

Upgrading the high voltage network to 22kV will enable 

the existing zone substations in Bulgarra and Millars 

Well to provide adequate power for some time into 

future without the need for a new zone substation. It 

is critical that design of the new 22kV underground 

power network includes spare capacity within feeder 

cable installation to allow for the substantial additional 

power load that will result from increased development 

density proposed by the City Centre Masterplan. Failure 

to provide substantial spare capacity at the time of the 

22kV network installation could result in significant 

unnecessary excavation adjacent to live services and 

reinstatement being required. 

Existing high voltage overhead power transmissions lines 

are located along Dampier Highway linking the Bulgarra 

and Pegs Creek zone substations to the existing Stovehill 

Road switchyard. While not impossible to relocate, the 

retention of existing power transmission line routes 

about the perimeter of the townsite is preferable due to 

the cost implications of relocation. 

Water 

The Karratha gravity water supply scheme sources bulk 

potable water from the Water Corporation’s West Pilbara 

Water Supply Scheme. 

The West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme water supply 

scheme relies on surface water collection via the Harding 

Dam and groundwater extraction from the Millstream 

aquifer. Both of these sources of water have significant 

constraints. The Harding Dam relies 

on rainfall associated with tropical cyclones to refill, 

which by nature is spasmodic in occurrence. The 

Millstream aquifer has pumping limits in order to 

preserve the environmental integrity of it location. 

The current proposed developments for Karratha will 

effectively utilize the remaining bulk water supply 

and reticulation capacity available for the Karratha 

Townsite in the near future. The Water Corporation 

and Department of Water are currently working on a 

strategy for the augmentation of Karratha (and the 

West Pilbara’s) water supply. The Water Corporation has 

indicated they anticipate the current bulk water supply 

source to be at capacity by 2013, subject to adequate 

cyclonic related rainfall. 

As the quantity of water available from surface water 

collection (i.e. Harding Dam) and groundwater aquifers 

(i.e. Millstream) are finite, it is inevitable that alternative 

sources will be required. The future sources of water 

should be from a combination of the most sustainable 

sources available. This may include wastewater recycling 

and desalination. 

Development of a new water supply source will require 

significant capital investment in the near future to 

accommodate the projected population growth in the 

West Pilbara region. 

The Karratha Townsite water supply is a gravity scheme 

fed from Tank Number 3, a 25 megalitre tank at a top 

water level of RL65.6 AHD, located within the hills 

behind Rosemary Road. Distribution water mains from 

the supply tank feed water reticulation mains, which 

service each property within the townsite. 

The elevation of the gravity supply tank provides the 

energy for the water reticulation pipe work pressure. 

This limits the maximum lot development level to be in 

the order of RL28m AHD to allow for adequate water 

pressure. It is anticipated that medium rise building 

proposed in the City Centre Masterplan will require roof 

top fire and potable water storage and 

pumping facilities. 

The existing Karratha town centre area is serviced 

by asbestos cement water reticulation mains with 

diameters of either DN100 or DN150. This reticulation 

network would require significant upgrade if substantial 

development or density increases were to occur. It is 

likely that a full pipe upgrade to allow for the required 

flow rate would be required back to a gravity 

supply tank. 

Currently the twin steel 9 Megalitre tanks at a top 

water level of RL65.7, located on the hill adjacent to 

Millstream Road and Karratha Road, South of the town 

centre are not operational. The Water Corporation is 

currently examining the recommissioning of these tanks 

to alleviate the water storage constraints to the town 

water supply scheme. Redevelopment of these tanks is 

constrained as they are considered to have European 

heritage values. 

Water usage in accordance with sustainability best 

practice needs to be mandated. Significant opportunities 

exist for future developments to be serviced by a third 

pipe reticulating recycled treated wastewater down to 

the individual property level. 

There exists significant opportunity to utilize re-use 

water for the irrigation of POS areas, which currently 

utilize scheme water. A number of other industrial and 

construction uses for recycled water in lieu of potable 

water potentially exist. 

Currently residential scheme water usage in the West 

Pilbara only comprises 35% of scheme water usage, 

with the balance mainly used by industry. Opportunity 

obviously exists for industry to utilize scheme water 

more appropriately and free up potable water for 

residential consumption. 

Sewer 

The treatment and disposal of wastewater in the Pilbara 

Region is typically undertaken by the Water Corporation 

on a catchment basis within each townsite. 

The prevailing weather conditions allow for relatively 

cheap treatment by means of evaporation and oxidation 

ponds. This treatment however produces effluent of low 

quality that can only currently be reused for municipal 

purposes under strict operating conditions. Opportunity 

exists for far more extensive reuse in accordance with 

Health Department of Western Australia guidelines, if a 

higher quality of treatment was to occur. 

The disposal of sewerage in Karratha is facilitated by 

a gravity sewer reticulation pipe network connecting 

to six different wastewater pumping stations, typically 

located along Balmoral Road and Searipple Road, on the 

northern extremity of the existing townsite. 

The Karratha town centre wastewater gravitates and 

is pumped to Karratha Wastewater Pumping Station 

Number 1 located on Searipple Road, which discharges 

via a sewer pressure main to Karratha Wastewater 

Treatment Plant No 1 located between Bulgarra and the 

Karratha Industrial Estate. 

The sewer treatment plant consists of a series of 

oxidation ponds that rely on evaporation and discharge 

to effluent reuse facilities for the disposal of sewerage.


Karratha Wastewater Treatment Plant No 1 currently has 

an inflow of 1850kL/day with a treatment capacity of 

3000kL/day. However it cannot readily accept further 

flow until its treated wastewater reuse capacity, which 

is already exceeded, is upgraded. Further physical 

expansion of the facility is limited by topography. 

Intensification of residential density within the townsite 

would require upgrade works to existing sewer pumping 

stations and pressure mains to accommodate the 

required flows. The substantial increase in density 

proposed by the City Centre Masterplan (subject to a 

sewer planning design review) would suggest that a 

new dedicated sewer pumping station and pressure 

main for wastewater disposal would be warranted. This 

potentially then provides opportunity for increased sewer 

flow from Bulgarra to discharge via Wastewater Pumping 

Station No 1 without substantial upgrade. The new road 

configuration proposed by the City Centre Masterplan 

provides the opportunity for the installation of larger 

diameter gravity sewers to accommodate increased 

sewer flows. 

Wastewater is currently recycled by the Shire of 

Roebourne for large recreation areas, however this 

scheme is in need of significant upgrade works. 

A number of other irrigated public open spaces 

are currently fed from scheme water, which with 

augmentation could utilize recycled wastewater. 

Opportunity exists to increase the capacity of treatment 

process by treating wastewater and recycling via a third 

pipe reticulation scheme within new development areas. 

Telecommunications 

Telstra’s Karratha telecommunications exchange and 

communications tower is located on Balmoral Road, 

between Welcome Road and Morse Court. An extensive 

network of optic fibre and copper cable connect to the 

telephone exchange and radiate about the townsite, with 

major cables typically located on the local connector 

and distributor roads. Currently hard wired data 

transmission available at a household level is based on 

Telstra’s ASDL technology. 

It is essential that the City Centre Masterplan 

accommodates the telecommunications exchange and 

the existing cable routes in Balmoral adjacent to the 

site. Optic fibre and copper cables can be relocated at 

significant expense, however it is preferable to retain the 

existing road reserve boundaries where possible. 

Gas 

Despite being located in a region that provides a 

significant proportion of Western Australia’s domestic 

gas supply, Pilbara towns are not provided with a 

reticulated gas supply network. As heating is not 

required in winter and solar hot water systems are quite 

functional, the base load demand for a reticulated gas 

supply is relatively small compared to Southern areas of 

Western Australia. 

A servicing plan outlining the location of existing utilities 

is provided within Appendix H. 

2.0 

45

46 

2.0 

TRANSPORT AND MOVEMENT 

Road Network 

Karratha town centre is generally bounded by Balmoral 

Road and Searipple Road to the west and east, and by 

Warambie Road and Dampier Road to the north and 

south. It entails an additional east-west link (Welcome 

Road) and a north-south link connecting Warambie Road 

and Welcome Road. 

Prior to this study there were no available traffic 

count data for the town centre roads; therefore, as 

approximation, indicative daily volumes were derived 

from the traffic count surveys undertaken at major town 

centre intersections. Afternoon peak hour data was 

factored up to estimate the total daily traffic for these 

roads (refer Table 12). 

Town centre road Date 

Table 12: Estimated traffic volumes for key Karratha town centre roads 

Some capacity constraints were identified for 

Welcome and Warambie Roads, particularly during the 

afternoon peak period. This issue was observed at the 

intersections of these roads with Balmoral Road and the 

intersection of Welcome Road with Klenk Street during 

the traffic survey and Karratha site tour. 

With respect to Balmoral Road/Warambie Road 

intersection (single lane roundabout standard) it was 

observed that, during afternoon peak hour, vehicle 

queuing was extensive and reached up to nine vehicles 

on certain approaches. 

The internal Karratha town centre zone can generally 

be characterized as poorly planned, poorly accessible, 

convoluted and illegible road system with limited westeast 

connections and poor circulation around the 

Average 

weekday 

traffic 

HV % 

Welcome Rd (East of Balmoral Rd) Nov 2009 6,700 N/A 

Sharpe Ave (North of Welcome Rd) Nov 2009 4,000 N/A 

Warambie Rd (central section) Nov 2009 6,700 N/A 

centrally located Centro Karratha Shopping Centre. There 

is a general sense that parking dominates the entire 

town centre zone and that poor legibility, circulation and 

permeability within this zone effectively severs northsouth 

and east-west connectivity adding pressure to the 

road system surrounding the central zone. 

Some of the most obvious town centre issues are 

illustrated in the following figures: 

Figure 32: Klenk Street: one of the central 

Karratha town centre streets (vast parking 

areas on both sides of the road) 

Figure 35: Sharp Avenue: Angled parking 

combined with wide carriageway and narrow 

pedestrian paths 

Figure 33: Vast unmarked and underutilised 

parking areas 

Figure 36: Staggered/roundabout intersection 

with substandard central dome 

Figure 31: Unsightly entry statement to the 

town centre zone: Balmoral Road/ Welcome Rd 

intersection 

Figure 34: Poor intersection geometry and 

legibility at Headland Place/Klenk Street/ 

Searipple Road intersection 

Figure 37: Traffic congestion at Balmoral 

Road/Warambie Road intersection


Parking 

One of the main features of the Karratha town centre is 

the vast, centrally located, parking areas (particularly 

around the shopping mall), which are typically 

underutilised. There are currently over 2,000 parking 

bays available within the town centre zone alone. Where 

bays are actually line marked on site they have been 

counted directly but in unmarked areas an estimation 

of the potential capacity with line marking has been 

undertaken on site. 

A parking survey was undertaken for this study on 

Friday 19 December and Saturday 20 December 2009. 

Figures 91 and 92 contained within Appendix E show 

the maximum parking occupancy as a percentage of 

the number of spaces available in each parking zone on 

each day. Note that these are the maximum occupancy 

observed in each zone individually, not all at the same 

time of day. 

These parking surveys showed that the highest overall 

parking occupancy across the whole town centre was 

55% on Friday (12AM-1PM) and 53% on Saturday (1PM- 

2PM). The main shopping centre car parks (966 spaces 

including disabled and loading zones) are up to 73% full 

on Friday and up to 85% full on Saturday. 

There is a significant amount of spare parking capacity 

in the surrounding parts of the town centre zone at 

all times. Most of this spare parking currently has 

poor accessibility from the central part of the town 

centre. Current parking usage is strongly dominated 

by the tendency to park in the car park closest to the 

destination. Few people were observed walking to 

multiple destinations or from more distant car parks to 

the shopping centre. This is probably because drivers 

can always anticipate that empty bays will be available 

in their car park of choice. Future improved accessibility 

to spare parking capacity is unlikely to change this 

trend, so the more distant spare capacity is only likely to 

be used during periods of exceptionally high demand. 

Pedestrian And Cyclist Facilities 

The pedestrian network within the Karratha town centre 

is fragmented, incomplete and lacks natural or artificial 

shade. Essentially, substandard existing pedestrian 

path network (no tactile paving, no ramps and rails, 

no line marking, etc.), poor east-west and north-south 

connection and circulation around the shopping mall are 

potential reasons for underutilisation. 

The issues identified for the pedestrian facilities can 

generally be applied to the cyclist facilities as well. A 

review of the existing cyclist facilities revealed general 

lack of bicycle paths, substandard width of existing DUP 

network (1.2m – 1.5m) and lack of end-of-trip facilities. 

There are no on-road cycling lanes and the majority 

of key Karratha town centre roads can commonly be 

characterised as poor road–riding environments. Lack 

of green shaded cycling routes is also a major deterrent 

of bicycle use for both recreational and commuting 

purposes. Refer Figure 88 within Appendix E for detailed 

existing Karratha town centre pedestrian and cyclist 

network map. 



Physical Development 

Identification and progression of approvals to allow 

extraction of fill material for future borrow pits is 

currently being undertaken by interested parties. 

Encouragement of further fill source development to 

provide a competitive economic supply should 

be encouraged. 

Stormwater 

Future development plans will require appropriate space 

for integration of storm water conveyance channels/ 

swales to cater for large storm event flows. The 

landscape treatment of the drainage facilities to suit the 

proposed urban form provides opportunity to provide a 

higher amenity locality. 

In order to optimize the use of spare land within 

existing drainage corridors and confirm potential 

drain relocations, it is recommend that detailed two 

dimensional drainage modeling be undertaken to 

accurately determine the extent of land free to be 

developed and appropriate property development levels. 

For future development of the City Centre it is critical 

to maintain low points in road pavements discharging 

overland flow to drainage lines and depressions in vacant 

land. Development of vacant parcels of land requires the 

accommodation of existing natural flood routes or the 

creation of constructed large storm event 

conveyance corridors. 

Earthworks 

The areas generally identified for future development Service Utilities 

in Karratha have typically similar ground conditions. 

The hills adjacent to the townsite generally consist Power 

of subsurface rock extending to the surface that is Horizon Power has secured funding for the Karratha 

extremely difficult to excavate. It is critical for future component of the Pilbara Underground Power Project, 

development to be sympathetic to the natural falls of the including upgrading of the high voltage distribution 

landform to allow ease of flood routing and minimize network to 22kV. Design services are currently 

excavation depth of services in rock. 

being procured, with an anticipated programme of 

construction works commencing in July 2010 and 

completion planned for December 2011. It is critical 

that the design of the new 22kV power distribution 

2.0 

network includes design provision for the significant 

extra power loads that will result from increased 

population density and commercial density within the 

proposed City Centre. 

It is suggested that design of the new underground 

power networks incorporates the use of smart meters 

to allow for the future integration of renewable energy 

sources at an individual lot level. Subject to appropriate 

technology and particularly cyclonic structural integrity, 

significant opportunity exists for photoelectric cells or 

wind turbines to provide power generation augmentation. 

Provision of appropriately sized easements to 

restrict development immediately about existing high 

voltage power transmission lines traversing proposed 

development areas will be required as 

development occurs. 

Future upgrade of the Stovehill Road Power Station to 

combined cycle operation provides for increased future 

sustainable energy options. 

Water 

The Water Corporation is currently undertaking a review 

of bulk water supply planning for the West Pilbara 

Water Supply Scheme. While subject to detailed design 

and approvals the current medium term strategy for 

augmentation of bulk water supply is to construct a 

desalination plant on Burrup Peninsula. It is intended to 

co locate this facility with the existing desalination plant, 

allowing for use of the existing seawater connection 

pipelines. 

Construction of a desalination plant on Burrup 

Peninsula would result in the need for construction of a 

new water distribution main to convey water to Karratha 

and surrounding towns beyond. The currently planned 

Dampier Highway upgrade by Main Roads WA provides 

opportunity to a secure a pipeline route integrated 

within the road design. 

47

48 

2.0 

In the short term while the desalination plant planning, 

design and construction occur, the Water Corporation is 

undertaking water efficiency planning to identify more 

appropriate use of the available resource. This may 

include increased reuse of wastewater for 

non-potable uses. 

A full water supply scheme planning review of Karratha’s 

water supply distribution network incorporating the City 

Growth Plan and City Centre Masterplan is required by 

the Water Corporation to confirm the extent of tank and 

pipework upgrades required about the townsite. While 

this planning review is yet to be undertaken we expect 

that the review would consider recommissioning existing 

water Tank Numbers 1 and 2, upgrading of pipework 

about the City Centre and Bulgarra, increase of Tank 

Number 3 capacity and potentially a new tank adjacent 

to Mulataga. 

Sewer 

The Water Corporation is currently undertaking a 

planning review of wastewater treatment in Karratha 

to accommodate the large recent increase in sewer 

flows. A full planning review of wastewater conveyance 

and treatment incorporating the City Growth Plan and 

City Centre Masterplan is required to define the extent 

of gravity sewer, pumping station, pressure main and 

treatment capacity upgrade works required. Sewer 

treatment upgrade to current standards such as reverse 

osmosis potentially provides a significant alternative 

source of non-potable water. Design and construction of 

an upgraded town wastewater reuse scheme is required 

to dispose of wastewater and provide a valuable 

resource for amenity enhancement. 

Telecommunications 

In order to improve wireless data connection speeds, 

Telstra are currently constructing further wireless 

communications base stations in Karratha, near high 

density accommodation facilities, which will assist in 

increasing data transmission speeds. The currently 

National Broadband Network scheme provides 

opportunity for Karratha to significantly upgrade 

telecommunications data speeds to 100 Megabits per 

second utilizing fibre to node technology. The provision 

of trenches for the Pilbara Underground Power Scheme 

provides the opportunity for the efficient provision of 

additional conduits required for the National Broadband 

Network by trench sharing and coordination with 

Horizon Power. 

Transport and Movement 

The existing road network in Karratha operates 

satisfactorily with current traffic levels; however, some 

elements of the network are presently experiencing 

capacity constraints and are therefore being upgraded. 

Anticipated town centre expansion and redevelopment, 

including anticipated population and traffic growth, 

necessitate transport network redesign including major 

upgrades to provide infrastructure support in future. 

Certain minor upgrades are currently being carried out 

while others are still in the planning stage. 

One of the major road network upgrades, which is still 

in the planning stage, is the Balmoral Road-Searipple 

Road (Northern Bypass) link. This bypass would directly 

connect Balmoral Road (eastern section) with Searipple 

Road (western section) bypassing the town centre 

along the northern perimeter. This bypass is likely to 

relieve traffic congestion and improve permeability to 

the north of the town centre. The exact alignment and 

construction timeframe of this bypass is not 

yet confirmed. 



Population increase, industrial growth and associated 

increases in transport, energy and water use are the 

key driver forces affecting infrastructure capacity in 

the Pilbara generally and Karratha specifically. Large 

temporary construction workforce accommodation 

facilities place high peak load demands on infrastructure 

while not always being allowed for in overall population 

related infrastructure capacity allowances. 

These drivers exert direct pressures on the 

infrastructure, which was previously designed with a 

smaller population growth capacity allowance. 


Projected Karratha population growth coupled with 

anticipated town expansion that is driven by surge in 

economic activity in the Pilbara region are key factors 

contributing to the anticipated future pressure on the 

existing transport infrastructure. These pressures would 

exacerbate the identified limitations of the existing town 

centre transport network and facilities. 



The key infrastructure challenges for Karratha in 

accommodating an increased population include: 

Identification and licensing of borrow pits to 

provide fill material required for development; 

Two dimensional drainage modelling of the existing 

townsite to optimise land take for drainage and to 

provide detailed development level guidance; 

The definition of minimum development levels from 

storm surge combined with sea level rise on coastal 

and inland development. 

Implementation of underground power 22kV scheme 

to accommodate future power loads in accordance 

with the City Growth Plan and City 

Centre Masterplan; 

Design of underground power scheme to allow for 

individual property level renewable energy input; 

Design and construction of a new bulk water source 

(desalination plant) as soon as practical; 

Implementation of water efficiency measures to 

allow development in short term while bulk water 

augmentation occurs. Unless this occurs further 

development is not possible; 

Review of town water supply scheme to define 

upgrades to suit City Growth Plan and City Centre 

Masterplan; 

Dampier Highway upgrade works to include corridor 

for Burrup Peninsula to Karratha Water Distribution 

Main installation; 

Review of town sewer scheme to define upgrades to 

suit City Growth Plan and City Centre Masterplan 

and to identify immediate works to allow for current 

growth considering modern sewer treatment options 

Design and implement upgraded town wastewater 

reuse scheme; and 

Implementation of the National Broadband Network 

to the entire Karratha townsite.



The results of the Karratha town centre transport 

network assessment, coupled with the site observations, 

confirms that the existing road network is generally 

sufficient to cater for the present level of traffic 

activity in the town centre zone. Occasional road and 

intersection capacity constraints are noted but are 

typically restricted to peak daily traffic activity periods. 

The gateway intersections to the town centre presently 

operate satisfactorily with occasional delays 

and vehicle queuing. 

However, key implications of the inherited, poorly 

planned town centre road network are identified 

as follows: 

Poor east-west and north-south connectivity; 

Poor permeability and legibility, particularly around 

the Centro Karratha Shopping Mall area; 

Poor connectivity of the town centre with the rest of 

the Karratha townsite; 

Vast, under-utilised parking areas within the central 

zone; 

Fragmented and incomplete pedestrian network with 

limited facilities; 

Fragmented, incomplete and sub-standard cyclist 

network with limited or no facilities; 

No pedestrian or cyclist friendly environment within 

the town centre zone; and 

The existing transport network within the town centre 

zone would have to undergo complete overhaul 

and redesign in order to support anticipated future 

expansion and traffic growth. 


Infrastructure and Resources 

Economically efficient infrastructure for industry and 

households designed for efficient use of energy, water, 

materials and transport. 


to meeting the aspirational goal, by addressing the 

needs of current state of infrastructure and the driving 

forces and pressures that will affect achieving the 

desired future outcomes and realising the goal. The 

objectives for infrastructure are: 

Best practice per capita water consumption. 

Energy efficient built form. 

Energy efficient lighting, equipment and appliances. 

Best practice materials efficiency. 

Effective and well utilised public transport. 

2.0 

49

50 

2.0 

2.8 STRENGTHENING KARRATHA’S 

SENSE OF PLACE 

Gaining an understanding of the character of an area or 

the meaning ascribed to it involves a process of peeling 

away layers to reveal the natural and cultural features 

that hold significance. The sense of place for an area is 

difficult to define, and the process is often ongoing as 

change occurs. However, through context analysis and 

the consultation with the community and stakeholders 

carried out to date, a number of key attributes have 

emerged: 

Indigenous culture and heritage, and a large number 

of significant sites throughout Karratha; 

Resources sector history and status of the area as 

the “engine room of the nation”; 

Role as a major resources hub within the global 

economy; 

Relaxed, outdoor lifestyle, offering sporting, boating 

and camping opportunities; 

Arid landscape and harsh climatic conditions, 

including high heat for much of the year and cyclonic 

events; 

More moderate temperatures in the evenings and 

during the wet season; 

Tributaries and drainage corroders that run through 

the town; 

Prominence and integrity of Karratha Hills; 

Close proximity but limited access to Nickol Bay; 

Views from Karratha across Nickol Bay to the Burrup 

Peninsula; 

Strong local arts and culture community; 

Long distances from other major centres; 

Mediocre and dilapidated Town Centre; and 

The public realm is often sparse and forbidding. 

These attributes will be addressed through the City 

Growth Plan: 

ECONOMY 

Reflect Karratha’s resources sector history and status 

as the “engine room of the nation”; 

Qualities that befit Karratha’s role as a major 

resources hub, and its position in the global 

economy; and 

Development, training and jobs in areas that facilitate 

engagement with local experiences, such as local 

arts and crafts, recreation and tourism. 

COMMUNITY 

An improved understanding of the local Indigenous 

culture and heritage, and the traditional custodian’s 

appreciation of the landscape; 

Build on Karratha’s unique relaxed, outdoor lifestyle 

and easy access to the ‘great outdoors’; and 

Identify opportunities for public display and 

celebration of local art and culture, and social 

activities that contribute to community cohesion. 

ENVIRONMENT 

Take advantage of times when it is cooler, such as in 

the evening and during winter months; 

Protect and enhance of tributaries into Nickol Bay; 

Maintaining the prominence and integrity of key 

landscape features including the Karratha Hills and 

Nickol Bay, whilst balancing the need for improved 

access; and 

Take advantage of the topography to enhance views 

of the landscape. 

BUILT ENVIRONMENT 

Maintain the orientation of the Karratha townsite, in 

parallel to the Karratha Hills; 

Use of colours, textures and topography that reflect 

the Karratha landscape; 

Achieve view corridors to the Karratha Hills, Nickol 

Bay and the Burrup Peninsula; 

Greening of Karratha through enhancement of 

tributaries and drainage corridors, with shade trees, 

primarily with local species; 

Development that facilitates connection to the 

Karratha Hills and Nickol Bay; 

Encourage higher quality development, that reflects 

Karratha’s status and long term future; and 

Respond to the influence of the environment and 

culture of the region in the design of the public 

realm, to create a unique Karratha style: 

− Natural topography; 

− Energy and water efficiency; 

− Renewable energy; and 

− Breezeways. 


Water efficiency and re-use; 

Renewable energy; and 

Improved connectivity throughout Karratha


SENSE OF PLACE 

2.0 

51



VOLUME 3 - PART 3.0

54 
























3 PROJECT GOALS AND 

OBJECTIVES 

3.1 FUTURE KARRATHA CITY CENTRE – GOALS 

AND OBJECTIVES 

As noted in Section 1.3.1, Aspirational Goals were 

developed that describe the desired characteristics of 

a sustainable Karratha. These Goals represent a higherorder 

aim to which the project is intended to contribute 

– they are statements of longer-term intent. 

More specific Project Objectives have been devised to 

guide the development of effective strategies for the 

evolution of Karratha into a City of the North, ultimately 

with the characteristics described in the Goals. The 

objectives derive from the context analysis outlined in 

the previous section, and aim to be a description of 

an overall desired achievement involving a process of 

change from the present to the desired. 

While mainly reflecting each of the Goal domains of 

Economy, Community, Environment, Built Environment & 

Public Realm and Infrastructure, many of the objectives 

apply to more than one domain. 

Settlements as Systems 

City of the North Goals & Objectives 

Figure 38: Settlements as Systems 

SOCIETY HUMAN SETTLEMENTS ECOSYSTEMS 

Community Environment 

Built Environment & 

Public Realm 

Economy Infrastructure & Resources 

3.0 

55

56 

3.0 

Aspirational Goal Project Objectives 

Economy 

A robust, diversified local 

economy that effectively 

services the needs of local 

and regional industry and 

population 

Community 

Communities that are safe, 

healthy, and enjoyable 

places to live and work; 

offer cultural, educational, 

recreational opportunities; 

provide appropriate housing, 

services and amenities; foster 

active local citizenship. 

Environment 

Local, regional and global 

eco-systems in which 

landform, habitat and 

biodiversity are retained 

and that provide natural 

provisioning, regulating and 

cultural services 

Improved local business capability to service established industry sectors 

Optimised local employment distribution to meet the requirements of industry and 

population 

Increased local business, industry and employment diversity 

Enhanced local business investment and entrepreneurial activity 

Activated and accessible retail and commercial destinations 

Provision of a full range of community services and facilities 

Affordable accommodation and living 

Community cohesion, vitality and involvement 

Strong cross cultural relationships 

Acknowledgement of cultural heritage through built form, public art, community art 

and community activities 

Good access to work, services and amenities 

Community participation in goal setting and decision-making processes 

Integration of workforce with local community 

Protection of significant natural landform 

Protection of significant native vegetation and habitat 

Prevention of pollution and erosion from stormwater 

Retention of predevelopment water balance 

Reduced net per capita carbon emissions 

Minimal waste to landfill 

Best practice recovery and reuse of materials 

High levels of air quality 

Acceptable noise levels 

Table 13: Goals and Objectives 

Note: Each of the specific strategies set out in the following sections have been devised to respond to one or more of the above Goals 

and Objectives. 

Aspirational Goal Project Objectives 

Infrastructure & Resources Best practice per capita water consumption 

Economically efficient 

Energy efficient built form 

infrastructure for industry Energy efficient lighting, equipment and appliances 

and households designed for 

efficient use of energy, water, Best practice materials efficiency 

materials and transport 

Effective and well utilised public transport 

Built Environment and Public Increased net development density 

Realm 

A place based response that reflects the climate, context and site 

An urban form that reflects Management strategies for climate change and natural disasters 

the intrinsic qualities of the 

site context, characteristics An integration of uses that achieves functionality, efficiency and compatibility 

and relationships and 

Connectivity at local, district and regional scale 

complements the natural 

environment; with centres A network and hierarchy of streets and public spaces that provides permeability and 

that are vibrant, dynamic, legibility 

diverse and functional 

A integrated movement network that ensures the safe movement of pedestrians, 

cyclists and vehicles 

A diverse mix of uses, buildings and housing types 

High quality well designed buildings that reflect the site context 

A variety of well defined open spaces 

An accessible and legible city centre destination 

Table 13: Goals and Objectives (Continued) 

Note: Each of the specific strategies set out in the following sections have been devised to respond to one or more of the above Goals 

and Objectives.

3.2 CITY CENTRE PLANNING PRINCIPLES 

3.2.1 PRINCIPLES OF A GREAT CITY CENTRE 

Creating a vibrant City Centre for Karratha is placemaking 

process that promotes a variety of residential, 

retail commercial, civic and community amenities. 

Encompassing high quality architecture and landscaping 

and incorporating place responsive design elements 

will promote a balance between the needs of both 

pedestrians and vehicular traffic and promoting an 

attractive urban from that will encourage inclusiveness, 

participation and interaction. Moving away from a cardominated 

environment and incorporating walkable 

main streets will promote a sense of vibrancy, safety and 

community cohesion and establishing a City Centre that 

is compact, connected and conducive. 

Focusing on the upon the quality of the public realm and 

the inclusion of higher density residential and mixeduse 

development will promote an intensive and multifunctional 

urban environment. A variety of residential 

dwellings will offer choice and diversity on housing 

opportunities for a wide demographic, whilst providing 

the critical residential mass that will contribute to a 

lively public realm. The density and scale of mixeduse 

development will provide for after hours activity, 

supporting the local business economy and providing 

passive surveillance and improved safety. The intent 

is to provide attractive streetscapes that reinforce the 

functions and amenity of a street and are sensitive to 

the built form, urban landscape and environmental 

conditions of the locality to promote a sense of place 

and reinforce local identity. 

A number of guiding urban design and planning 

principles have been developed in line with the view 

to creating a vibrant City Centre. The principles were 

drawn from an analysis of cities around the world, which 

were considered to demonstrate good city design and 

which exhibited similar locational, physical and climatic 

challenges to Karratha. These principles are responsive 

Intergrating Uses 

City Square and a vibrant street culture will contrast with 

to Karratha’s regional context and importantly, the 

project’s aspiration goals and objectives for each of 

the sustainability framework elements of economy; 

community; environment; built environment and public 

realm; and Infrastructure & Resources. 

In developing the City Growth Plan, a number of City 

Planning Principles have been applied. Similarly, these 

principles have been used as a basis for guiding the 

design of the City Centre master plan. However, given 

Integrating Karratha’s 

disparate land uses is 

essential to ensuring greater 

accessibility to services and 

amenities throughout the 

town centre improving the 

vitality and connection within 

the community. Through the introduction of mixeduse 

development and enhanced interconnected street 

networks into the City Centre, neighbourhood centres 

the existing tarmac dominated town centre, providing a 

new communal ‘backyard’ for residents, the community 

and visitors. Apartments, town houses and shop-top 

housing will add a cosmopolitan element to Karratha, 

whilst easing pressure on the housing supply. The 

Karratha City Centre will provide greater possibilities 

for living, not only to cater for the needs and desires of 

the existing population, but also for the future residents 

who have yet to be enticed northward to enjoy Karratha’s 

unique lifestyle. 

the City Centre is comprised of a range of different and tourist related nodes, Karratha will develop as an 

elements, these principles have been adapted to be attractive place with an intensity that provides for a 

specific to the City Centre and are summarised 

as follows 

Creating Good Structure 

Integration, good connection, 

accessibility and permeability 

are key aspects of a good 

structure that will enable the 

City Centre to grow and adapt to 

meet the evolving needs of the 

community. A rational movement 

variety of accessible amenities within close proximity to 

each other. Through increased levels of activity, intensity 

and interest, residents from a variety of backgrounds, 

including FIFO workers, will be encouraged to visit the 

City Centre on a more regular basis promoting greater 

social cohesion within the community and adding to 

the threshold population supporting a larger number of 

facilities and amenities. An interesting and diverse range 

of shops, fresh food produce markets, small businesses 

and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes will enhance 

a sense of place and vibrancy. 

Linking Attractions 

A variety of interconnected 

destinations evokes curiosity 

and provides a sense of 

discovery – creating an 

interesting place for residents, 

workers and visitors. Integration 

of activities with streets 

and civic spaces, will not only provide interesting 

destinations, but also creates an enticing journey. 

This will allow users of the centre to engage in multi 

network with more opportunities to traverse the City 

purpose trips, reinforcing the role of the City Centre as 

Centre on shaded streets with increased permeability 

Providing Diversity 

a key reducing vehicle use and encouraging community 

will assist in establishing greater ease for people to 

As a future ‘City of the North’ 

interaction. 

walk and orient their way around the City Centre. 

significant steps are currently 

Transforming the existing street system into a series of 

public places that provide a variety of urban experiences 

such as Civic Plazas will encourage more community 

interaction with the use of re-landscaped drainage 

lines creating a balance between the urban and natural 

environmental experiences. 

being undertaken to transform 

Karratha from its humble 

beginnings as a mining camp 

to a vibrant international 

destination. Karratha can offer a 

unique lifestyle. Balancing work life with an abundance 

of leisure opportunities, which, as Karratha grows and 

diversifies, will continue to play a role in the Karratha 

lifestyle. A variety of living and lifestyle opportunities 

will underpin the diversification of Karratha. At its heart, 

a vibrant mixed-use City Centre will celebrate a rich 

cultural heritage and landscape. Cool shady streets, a 

Delivering Accessibility 

A City Centre that promotes 

and encourages the use of 

active transport options such 

as walking and cycling is a step 

towards greater health and 

vitality, whist assisting to create 

a vibrant street culture. An 

interesting and dynamic town centre with a comfortable, 

interesting and attractive public realm will encourage 

people out of their cars into streets, providing more 

opportunities for interaction, the development of social 

3.0 

57

58 

3.0 

bonds and stronger community ownership and pride. 

An Active Playful City 

Establishing a well-defined street network is critical to 

Creating a variety of public 

creating a more attractive pedestrian environment, a 

places and spaces that 

more intuitive movement network and a more equitable 

provide for a diverse range 

balance between pedestrian and vehicle movement. 

of community activities 

is essential to optimising 

Responsive to Climate 

recreational benefits and 

amenity for the local 

Innovative architecture that 

community and visitors bringing the place to life. 

shields people from heat and the 

Formal and informal sports, meeting with friends and 

elements within the public realm 

family time are important activities for which well 

will be a significant contrast to 

designed and adequately provided parks and gardens 

the existing design inefficiencies 

in Karratha can play a role. Alternatives to the existing 

and the effect of heat gain within 

sports grounds such as the creation of a Civic Square 

the City Centre. Up until now, 

or water playground will enable the community not only 

urban design has addressed climate as a problem rather 

to engage in the sports that are such an important part 

than an opportunity, resulting in placeless architecture 

of the Karratha lifestyle, but also to have access to the 

and an uninspiring public realm. As Karratha matures 

type of places that enable people to meet, enjoy a shady 

to become a city, the time has come to establish a 

spot with friends, have a coffee and watch the day to day 

local identity through climate responsive and place- 

activity of the City. 

based design utilising a design rationale that uses one 

challenge to solve another and focuses on nourishment 

of the land rather than depletion. 

Sustainable & Replenishing 

Creating a sustainable city 

Culturally Identifiable 

will involve a strategy of 

replenishment to identify needs 

An inclusive City is one where 

within the City Centre and 

people from all walks of life and 

seek solutions with multiple 

cultural background can feel a 

benefits to meet the evolving 

sense of connection. The City 

challenges of the Karratha 

Centre should be a welcoming 

environment. With contrasting elements of extreme 

place for Karratha’s broad 

heat and flooding rain, protection from excess heat and 

cultural community through 

managing the flow of water are two key climate related 

participation and a design response that reflects both 

challenges in Karratha. With vistas extending between 

the needs and aspirations of both indigenous and non- 

the Karratha Hills and the Burrup Peninsula, reference 

indigenous community. 

to the local landscape is a defining aspect of Karratha’s 

local identity and sense of place. Maintaining a visual 

connection to landscape within the City Centre and 

place based design are two essential components of 

a place that is reflective of and responsive to the local 

environment. Utilising the flow of water through the 

town centre as an asset, allowing it to add value the 

urban environment and landscape as it flows from the 

Hills into Nickol Bay will be a significant shift in the 

approach to water management. Climate responsive 

design principles will underpin the development of built 

from within the City Centre, providing buildings that keep 

the heat out and reduce reliance on air-conditioning and 

energy inputs. Distinctive design based on sustainability 

outcomes will assist in defining a local identity for 

Karratha City Centre. 

Intergrated & Timeless 

Integrating uses through 

mixed-use development is 

aimed towards promoting 

an efficient consolidated 

and multi-functional urban 

environment by combining a 

number of compatible land uses. 

Management of multiple land uses within a singular 

development is also an important factor to ensure 

compatibility within land use patterns whilst providing 

the opportunity for the City Centre to adapt to meet 

evolving needs over time. Providing a greater residential 

focus, mixed-use development is an ideal development 

format that provides for activation to support the 

diversification of the local business economy to cement 

Karratha’s long-term sustainability.



VOLUME 3 - PART 4.0

60 
























4 AN INTEGRATED STRATEGY 

The City Centre Master Plan, including its precincts 

recommends a way forward to develop a City Centre 

commensurate with a population of 50,000 people. 

The Plan is based upon known context analysis, 

opportunities and constraints. In some cases 

assumptions have had to be made to deliver this plan 

and these have been identified in the precinct sections 

of this report. 

This plan should be considered in this context as the 

potential upper limit to growth and development in most 

cases. It is anticipated that as a result of more detailed 

planning such as preparation of development plans 

(structure plans), policy development and additional 

strategy work, refined estimates for growth will evolve. 

Notwithstanding this, the intent for the City Centre 

Master Plan should always drive development decisions 

in the first instance, with implications affecting the 

overall growth objectives being analysed and 

clearly articulated. 

This Strategy seeks to build upon the sustainability 

framework and establish city centre design and planning 

principles for the development of a vibrant and active 

City Centre. It complements and extends upon the 

current strategic direction identified in the documents 

outlined in Section 2 of this report. 

If Karratha is to become a liveable City, one that 

demonstrates economic diversity, a healthy local 

community and productive resource sector important 

factors to address are demographic balance, 

affordability, high quality amenity, and sustainability. 

A successful balance will result in a place of choice in 

which to work, visit, grow up, and raise families and 

age gracefully. 

Accordingly, Karratha’s Centre should be transformed 

from a place for just consumption into a thriving City 

Centre providing a diverse range of lifestyle choices for 

the community. The City Centre can be host to a variety 

of residential, retail, commercial, civic and community 

amenities. A Civic Square and a variety of public places 

will provide a multitude of opportunities for social 

interaction to sit, enjoy a coffee, beer or wine, whilst 

watching the world go by. High quality architecture and 

an attractive and conducive streetscape will transform 

Karratha’s landscape from a space for cars and searing 

hot tarmac, to a place for people. 

Defined streetscapes with buildings facing and 

shading the streets, streetscape enhancement and the 

establishment of new connections will assist in way 

finding, enabling intuitive movement within the City 

Centre. New connections designed to reduce the size of 

street blocks, enhanced drainage corridors and street 

trees will increase permeability and accessibility within 

the centre assisting in microclimate control, reducing 

the ‘heat sink’ that currently exists within the Centre. 

Whilst there are challenges to be overcome with respect 

to land ownership, the establishment of an key east west 

link to the north of the shopping centre will provide a 

key connection from either side of the shopping centre, 

thus reducing pressure of the surrounding road network 

and providing a public transport route through the town. 

Quality architecture with active frontages and an 

interesting, comfortable and attractive public realm will 

transform Karratha from a collection of introspective 

land uses into an integrated mixed-use destination. 

Combined with the use of high quality materials and 

timeless design principles, the urban experience 

Karratha will be embodied with a sense of permanence 

and vitality. It is only in recent years that the strength 

of the resource industry in the region has been widely 

acknowledged. 

4.0 

Moving away from the previous approach of providing 

temporary solutions to Karratha’s and establishing a 

sense of permanence and adaptability is essential to 

the creating a place to which people feel a sense of 

belonging and civic pride. 

Variety is an essential ingredient of quality places. 

Providing for a diverse population is intrinsically linked 

to inclusion that is effective not only on a design 

level, but will be a key consideration throughout the 

implementation process. Whilst diversity in the town 

centre extends to variety in both the manifestation 

of land use and the availability of amenities, it also 

extends to the needs of a rapidly diversifying population, 

establishing social inclusion as a key consideration for 

Karratha’s future. The celebration of indigenous culture 

and the integration of the temporary and FIFO workforce 

by attracting and encouraging participation will play a 

significant role in healing the social divisions that have 

occurred within in the community to create a place that 

welcomes people from of all walks of life. 

Creating such a place will not be borne out of a 

business as usual approach. Achieving the long term 

vision will require a multitude of innovatiivce and 

strategically guided interim interventions aligned closely 

to the aspirations, goals and values of the Karratha 

Revitalisation Project. 

61

62 

4.0 

4.1 DIVERSIFYING THE ECONOMY 

4.1.1 KARRATHA FLOORPSACE 

With regard to the planning for Karratha floorspace over 

time, particularly out to about 2041 and an anticipated 

population of 50,000, there are a number of variables 

over and above resident population that can influence 

demand for floorspace, particularly retail floorspace 

including: 

The extent of the FIFO population 

The extent to which Karratha as a major regional 

population centre will act as an attractor for Pilbara 

residents in general 

The extent of expenditure leakage, which is partly 

a function of the range of retail, commercial and 

institutional services on offer in Karratha. 

The nature and extent of the tourism sector 

and visitor base to Karratha. This sector is extremely 

underdeveloped and it is difficult to estimate what this 

might be 30 years hence 

The Karratha Primary Trade Area Retail and Commercial 

Strategy produced for the Department of Planning (then 

DPI) in July 2009 by SGS. estimated the current supply 

of retail floorspace in Karratha across all categories 

at 41,000m 2 of gross lettable floor area (GLFA) and 

29,684m 2 of commercial / office floorspace across 

commercial, government and institutional uses. The 

report further suggests that by 2020, at a residential 

population of 22,795 and FIFO workforce of 2,400 

that there will be demand for an additional 20,150m 2 

of retail across all categories and 16,200m 2 of 

commercial/ office space. This would mean the provision 

of a total retail floorspace of 61,500m 2 and 45,884m 2 

of office/ commercial. 

Pracsys high order estimates of retail floorspace 

suggest that for a population of 50,000, and assuming a 

role as a major regional population centre, Karratha may 

require something in the order of 123,444m 2 of total 

retail floorspace including 54,715m 2 of convenience 

retail, 55,711 of comparison retail and approximately 

13,000m 2 of café/ restaurant/ fast food floorspace. 

In terms of other PLUC categories we anticipate a 

requirement for around 63,000m 2 of general office / 

commercial space floorspace, 134,135m 2 of health, 

welfare and community service space floorspace 

and perhaps around 89,000m 2 of entertainment / 

recreational / cultural floorspace. It should be noted 

that the floorspace estimates are exactly that; they do 

not include provision for areas such as car parking, 

landscaping, set backs and the like. 

It is important to note that the demand for floorspace 

other than retail is driven less by population effects than 

it is by the commercial and strategic service delivery 

and resourcing decisions of business, companies, 

government agencies and institutions. These estimates 

are not intended as prescriptive but rather a general 

indication of possible demand for different types of 

floorspace based on scenario modelling. 

Of key importance to the effective development, 

activation and functioning of the City Centre is the need 

to limit the timing and scale of retail and commercial 

development in the neighbourhood centres to a level 

that does not undermine the activity centre status of the 

City Centre. Neighbourhood centres should be focused 

on meeting the general and convenience retail needs 

of the population rather than competing with the City 

Centre in offering a full spread of retail and commercial 

offerings. To allow large neighbourhood centres would 

disperse economic activity thoughout the town at the 

expense of an activated City Centre. The ultimate size of 

retail floorspace in these neighbourhood centres should 

not exceed about 8,000m 2 at a population of 50,000. 

8,000m 2 is suggested as a longer-term upper range 

figure rather than what should be built in the short term. 

Neighbourhood centres in this regard should be kept 

to around 3,000 to 4,000 metres with the potential to 

double that over the longer term. 

4.2 DEVELOPING KARRATHA’S CITY CENTRE 

FOR THE COMMUNITY 

The Western Australian Government and the SoR 

recognise the importance of delivering sustainable 

solutions to Karratha – solutions which not only mitigate 

current issues but also cater for significant future 

population growth. The challenge is to go beyond 

the delivery of physical infrastructure to provide the 

residents of Karratha with the community infrastructure 

they need, leading to opportunities for a quality of 

life that is commensurate with expectations of a 

major regional centre. Supporting the development 

of a healthy, safe and vibrant community will ensure 

that Karratha continues to grow as an engine room in 

Western Australia’s resource-driven economy. 

The Karratha revitalisation project offers an exciting 

opportunity to move beyond past dialogues and utilise 

a community-focused, cross-sector approach to the 

reinvigoration of Karratha’s spatial, social and economic 

environs. The approach being taken by project partners 

is characterised by strategically targeted interventions 

that address current concerns and issues, while also 

realising untapped potentials. 

4.2.1 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT APPROACH 

The creation of built form and physical infrastructure 

involves complex planning, significant investment, 

careful engineering and solid construction. It 

necessitates a common vision, partnerships and 

integrated action. The creation of community is no 

less exacting, and Karratha’s destiny as a “City of the 

North” gives rise to an obligation to similarly embrace 

a common vision, shared values, partnerships and the 

cohesive delivery of programs. 

The community development approach in this City 

Centre Plan looks at both the physical structures and 

the social dynamics of the City Centre as it evolves. The 

approach is specific to the local context and provides the 

social planning response to the challenges, opportunities 

and needs that were identified during community and 

stakeholder engagement and throughout the project 

planning process. 

A key focus of the strategies presented in this plan is 

aimed at effectively activating the City Centre’s places 

and spaces. The importance of community activation 

strategies in establishing and maximising utilisation 

patterns and nurturing of social capital in City Centres 

is often underestimated. Place is an ‘enabler’ but the 

most successful and interesting places result from 

both place creation and community activation – not 

dependent on a single enabler but instead an armoury 

of initiatives that stimulate people to interact, build 

relationships, establish networks and create a sense of 

local pride, identity and direction. 

In an activated place people are connected to each other, 

and to the location, in socially and culturally meaningful 

ways. In such places, the connections people make are 

deep, creating a sense of belonging and acceptance, 

which translates into ownership and a desire to 

contribute. These connections are often what makes a 

place distinctive – and can focus around family, culture, 

heritage, environment and community. 

This type of connection to place typically evolves 

over time through shared experiences such as street 

events, parades, festivals, holidays, customs and other 

activities, which bind the community together. Common 

experiences and rituals in a community help create a 

shared identity, which both enshrines and expresses 

shared values. They can also help in welcoming 

newcomers to become a part of that shared identity.

In contemporary Western society this type of connection 

to place seldom evolves naturally. It generally requires 

a planned approach, which builds on the values, 

aspirations and distinctiveness of communities. This 

may include collaborative planning with communities 

and the development of strategies in social planning 

documentation. It also requires mechanisms to ensure 

continuity in the delivery of events and activities, as well 

as capacity building to empower communities to play an 

active part in its realisation. 

4.2.2 SOCIAL DIMENSIONS OF A VIBRANT CITY CENTRE 

Urban design, including the careful planning of built 

form, traffic flow, pedestrian connections and so 

on – can result in the creation of a pleasing physical 

environment. The essence of a vibrant City Centre 

however, is to be found in the social dimension. Some 

City Centres have a significant ‘buzz’ yet have developed 

with minimal or even bad planning, while other places 

have failed to make the transition from magnificence on 

the drafting table to life at street level. 

A pleasing social environment shapes experience and 

perception of the physical environment. Therefore a City 

Centre must be a ‘people place’ that reflects the values 

of a community and a shared sense of belonging and 

wellbeing. 

The ‘Four Layers of Place’ concept (developed by 

Creating Communities Australia Pty Ltd) can usefully be 

applied to the development of a successful City Centre. 

This concept indicates how ‘layering’ is required to 

maximise the potential of a place. 

First Layer: Venue. 

Streets, footpaths, parks, city squares, piazzas, cultural 

facilities and so on can all be components of the venue 

or physical environments that can together be labelled 

place. Traditional approaches to place and facility 

creation focus on the provision of the material and 

reflect a ‘build it and they will come’ approach. 

Second Layer: Managed Venue. 

A second layer of place can be achieved through the 

establishment of a planning mechanism or management 

model to increase the appeal of the physical venue. 

Economic development plans, for example, can also be 

developed to benefit enterprise in City Centres. 

Third Layer: Activated Space. 

This layer adds sophistication to the management 

of place so that full activation occurs through public 

events, activities and programs. Through the presence 

and engagement of a broad range of demographic 

groups, a City Centre can become a very lively space. 

Fourth Layer: Sense of Place – A Connected Place. 

The essential elements of the fourth layer are that it is 

a place where people are connected to each other and 

to the place. They are places of meaning where the 

connection is deep and create a sense of belonging and 

acceptance, which is translated into ownership and a 

desire to contribute. 

4.0 

63

64 

4.0 

4.2.3 ACTIVATION PRINCIPLES FOR CREATING A VIBRANT 

CITY CENTRE IN KARRATHA 

Creating Communities Australia Pty Ltd has developed 

the CTC 11 model (City – Town- Centre 11 ©Creating 

Communities Pty Ltd 2010), which describes the key 

principles that need to be considered in the development 

of a vibrant, attractive and functional City Centre. 

If these principles are used as a foundation for seizing 

upon the evident opportunities that exist in Karratha, 

success will be achieved in revitalising the current 

Karratha town centre into a great City Centre. These 

principles are described below in reference to the 

development of the Karratha City Centre. 

1. Maximise investment and economic return. 

For businesses to flourish a holistic approach to City 

Centre development in Karratha is required to ensure 

that the return on business’ investment is high. This 

will in turn attract other businesses to the City Centre 

and result in a greater diversity of services. The key 

is to develop sustainable income-generating activities 

that help to fund additional City Centre functions and 

activities. 

2. Well-managed and maintained community assets. 

The Karratha City Centre requires a much higher 

standard of amenity and facilities than is currently the 

case. By setting a high expectation for the standard of 

built form structures by providing a program of regular 

maintenance and upgrade, it displays an ongoing 

commitment to creating an attractive environment 

that draws people to the centre. There needs to be an 

expectation and commitment by all property owners, 

leaseholders and local government to set and maintain 

these high standards. 

3. Integrated City Centre activities and spaces. 

Vibrant and lively City Centres provide a high quality 

of amenity in the public realm with spaces and places 

for recreation, civic engagement, retail, entertainment, 

leisure, tourism and community services. Karratha 

requires the development of places in the City Centre 

to cater for the diverse needs of residents, businesses 

and visitors. These places provide the venue for 

activities that will encourage and invite people of all 

ages, genders and cultures to use the City Centre. 

4. Foster community identity. 

The best City Centres are seen as the “beating heart” 

and community hub for the broader city. To attract 

people to the core of the city, there needs to be range 

of opportunities of retail, civic, community services 

and socialisation that represent the unique character of 

Karratha and the Pilbara. Karratha has the opportunity 

to develop a City Centre that celebrates both the longterm 

Indigenous heritage and the more recent resource 

sector based heritage. Through effective spatial design, 

built form and cultural and civic activation, the City 

Centre can reflect the local character and aspirations 

of the community, which in turn fosters community 

identity and pride. 

5. A partnership approach. 

The development of a great City Centre in Karratha 

is not the province of one particular stakeholder. It 

requires a collaborative and committed approach that 

involves stakeholders from across the public, private 

and community sectors. This approach will work to 

support and promote a common vision for how the 

Karratha City Centre can be developed into a thriving 

social and economic hub. 

6. Access & legibility. 

For people to utilise the services and social opportunities 

on offer in a great City Centre, they need to be able to 

access them easily. This is currently not the case in the 

Karratha City Centre, which lacks legibility and is difficult 

to access, particularly as a pedestrian. The improved 

provision of pedestrian friendly and well connected 

access ways, as well as having attractive and interesting 

streetscapes, will be crucial to attracting people to the 

Karratha City Centre. 

7. A safe and secure environment. 

Safety and security is essential to people feeling 

comfortable when regularly visiting a City Centre. The 

Karratha City Centre will benefit from a focused approach 

to designing out crime principles including the provision 

of better lighting, increased passive surveillance through 

residential development, improved sight lines, and 

street activation through activities and events. By also 

addressing traffic management and taking a proactive 

approach to partnering with police, there will be greater 

enthusiasm and increased confidence in the Karratha 

community to access and use the City Centre. 

8. Governance and management. 

A governance and management strategy for the 

Karratha City Centre is essential to create a vibrant, 

distinctive and commercially sustainable precinct. 

The idea of efficiently managing and marketing the 

precinct through a coordinated process and structure 

will facilitate the effective delivery and implementation 

of the City Centre plans, strategies and initiatives. Such 

a mechanism could involve the Shire of Roebourne, 

property owners, tenants, government agencies and the 

local community to work in partnership for the collective 

benefit of the City Centre precinct. An overarching 

governance model involving cross sector collaboration 

allows for the provision of enhanced services in the core 

areas of management of community/public assets; 

prevention and remediation; marketing and branding; 

and business development. 

9. Marketing and branding. 

A proactive approach to the promotion, branding 

and marketing of the City Centre will result in 

people becoming more aware of new opportunities, 

developments and attractions in the centre. Effective 

promotion and marketing will maximise the Karratha 

City Centre as an attractive location for residents and 

visitors and will in turn foster future development. 

10. Activation. 

The best City Centres are diverse, active, vibrant and 

lively places that exude vitality and atmosphere. To 

create this atmosphere in the Karratha City Centre it 

requires a planned approach to activating the spaces 

with events, activities and socialising opportunities. 

Effective City Centre activation provides opportunities 

for the community to participate in community and 

cultural activities that aim to foster an intrinsic 

connection to the places and spaces of the City Centre. 

11. Business development. 

Nothing impacts more negatively on the feel of a City 

Centre than seeing vacant shops and offices. 

Successful City Centre management in Karratha will 

focus strongly on stimulating grass-roots business 

and enterprise development and develop an assertive 

approach to advocacy and representation for all 

commercial operators and business tenants through 

alliances with stakeholders such as the Karratha 

Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

4.3 RESPONDING TO ENVIRONMENT 

4.3.1 ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS 

A number of environment related issues have been 

identified that will require further investigation prior to 

the delivery phase of the City Centre Master Plan. 

a) Undertake a coastal risk assessment for the Karratha 

region that includes the potential impacts from 

storm surge and climatically-induced sea level rise, 

a qualitative risk assessment of the likelihood and 

consequences of sea level rise and storm surge on 

the Karratha area and Karratha City Centre, and the 

identification of adaptation and mitigation strategies 

for both coastal and inland development. 

b) In accordance with Better Urban Water Management 

a Local Water Management Strategy (LWMS) should 

be developed for the Karratha City Centre that 

aligns with a District Water Management Strategy 

developed for all of Karratha. 

It is recommended that the LWMS be developed as early 

as possible in the planning phase of the City Centre 

master plan to maximise the opportunities for delivering 

long-term sustainable integrated water outcomes. 

4.3.2 ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENTS 

It is recommended that the following additional 

assessments be undertaken prior to commencing any 

construction or ground disturbing activities associated 

with delivery of the City Centre Master Plan to ensure 

minimal impact on the immediate and surrounding area: 

Undertake preliminary Acid Sulphate Soils 

investigations of proposed development areas to 

assess for the presence of acid generating soils. 

Undertake a Flora and Vegetation survey for any 

areas within the City Centre that require the clearing 

of native vegetation. 

Undertake a fauna survey for any areas within 

the City Centre that require the clearing of native 

vegetation to assess the potential presence of any 

native fauna and to assess the fauna habitat. 

4.3.3 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS 

The following section provides recommended 

management actions required to mitigate or minimise 

any impacts associated with the delivery of the City 

Centre Master Plan. 

Specific Management Plans may need to be prepared 

and submitted for approval by relevant authorities for 

the following issues: 

− Topsoil management and rehabilitation of 

disturbed areas. 

− Vegetation and flora. 

− Weed invasion and control management. 

− Fauna habitat and habitat linkages. 

− Acid Sulphate Soils. 

− Coastal and inland erosion. 

− Dust suppression and management. 

A Noise Management Plan will need to be prepared 

for any proposed construction works and submit for 

approval by relevant authorities. 

4.3.4 LICENCE AND APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS 

The following Commonwealth and Western Australian 

State Government licences and/or approvals may be 

required in order to deliver certain aspects of the 

City Centre Master Plan. It must be noted that the 

timeframes for obtaining a licence or approval can often 

be lengthy and as such prior planning and more detailed 

assessments should be sought as early as practicable. 

Subject to the findings of any environmental 

assessment required for the delivery of the 

Revitalisation Plan may need to be referred to the 

Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and Art 

under the Environmental Protection Biodiversity and 

Conservation Act 1999. 

In the event that the project requires the clearing of 

native vegetation the Department of Environment 

and Conservation will need to be consulted in order 

to obtain a clearing permit under the Environmental 

Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) 

Regulations 2004, if the project is not assessed by 

the Environmental Protection Authority. 

Under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 

a Bed and Banks licence will be required from the 

Department of Water should construction activities 

disturb the bed and banks of any river, creek or 

drainage channel within the town centre. 

Under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 

a dewatering licence will be required from the 

Department of Water if dewatering activities are 

required during construction activities within the 

town centre. 

A 26D licence for the construction of bores and a 5C 

licence to abstract groundwater will be required from 

the Department of Water should groundwater be 

required for construction purposes. 

4.0 

4.4 A SPATIAL GROWTH PLAN FOR KARRATHA 

4.4.1 CITY PLANNING PRINCIPLES 

PRINCIPLES OF A GREAT CITY 

This section details a number of guiding urban design 

and planning principles, which were developed by the 

project team to guide the design and development of 

the City Growth Plan. The principles were drawn from 

an analysis of cities around the world which were 

considered to demonstrate good city design and which 

exhibited similar locational, physical and climatic 

challenges to Karratha. 

The principles, which are detailed in the following 

sections, comprise: 

1. Developing Diversity; 

2. A City of Excellence; 

3. A Healthy City; 

4. Walkable and Connected; 

5. An Active and Playful City; 

6. An Affordable City; 

7. Sustainable and Replenishing; and 

8. Integrated and Conducive. 

These principles are responsive to Karratha’s regional 

context and importantly, the project’s Aspirational Goals 

and Objectives for each of the Sustainability Framework 

elements of Economy; Community; Environment 

Infrastructure & Resources; and Built Environment. 

Details of the underlying principles are provided within 

Volume 2 – City Wide Growth Plan. 

65

66 

4.0 

4.4.2 GROWTH PLAN PRECINCTS 

The City Growth Plan identifies several neighbourhood 

precincts which have been established to encapsulate 

the desired urban character for a particular urban area 

based on the predominant land uses, urban structure, 

built form and public realm amenity. The precincts, 

which include new urban growth areas as well as 

existing urban areas, are identified in Figure 39: 

The City Growth Plan document outlines visions and 

strategies for each of the precincts illustrated within 

Figure 40. Each precinct is defined by its key attributes 

and proposed development characteristics and 

requirements including: 

Existing provision of facilities; 

Current and future development projects and 

programmes identified within the precinct 

(e.g: K2020 and SoR Open Space Strategy 

recommendations); 

Proposed land uses, dwelling and density mix; 

Key infrastructure requirements; 

Staging; 

Assumptions/further studies required; and 

Planning actions required. 

This City Centre Masterplan provides a detailed outline 

of the context, visions and intervention strategies 

intended for Precinct 9: City Centre. 

Further details of the proposed strategies for the growth 

of Karratha are provided within Volume 2 – City Wide 

Growth Plan. 

Figure 39: City Growth Plan Precincts

4.5 CITY CENTRE MASTER PLAN 

The City Centre Master Plan outlines the vision for the 

future of the Karratha City Centre. It describes a future 

City Centre with a distinctive community and civic feel 

consisting of civic spaces, shaded streets, shopping 

and café strips, residential apartments to provide a 

platform for a diverse range of commercial, civic, retail 

and cultural amenities. 

With the Karratha Hills as a backdrop, the City Centre 

master plan heralds a renaissance, which will see 

the existing Karratha Town centre transform from 

a collections of sheds and desolate car parks into 

a diverse and attractive city centre. A sustainable 

response to its location and climate, the City Centre 

Master Plan will strengthen vibrancy and vitality to 

assist Karratha to earn its rightful place as a City of 

the North. 

Figure 40: City Centre Masterplan Source: TPG Town Planning and Urban Design 

4.0 

67

68 

4.0 

4.5.1 KEY ELEMENTS OF CITY CENTRE MASTER PLAN 

Figure 41: Sharpe Avenue as the key main street with its Grande Square supported by a Nature Promenade. This diagram also shows a 

pedestrian connection to potential new residential areas to the north of the City Centre. 

(Source: TPG Town Planning and Urban Design) 

Figure 42: New east west public transit based routes connecting to the surrounding residential areas. 

(Source: TPG Town Planning and Urban Design)

Figure 43: Strong connections to the Karratha Hills and surrounding Landscape has been achieved through extension of Sharpe Avenue as a 

key vista. 


4.0 

Figure 44: A variety of civic spaces and public parks will be provided within the City Centre encouraging a wide variety of passive and active 

recreational activities. 


69

4.0 

70 

6 

6 

10 

10 

6 

6 

8 

6 

1 

1 1 

6 

5 

5 

6 

4 

2 

2 

3 

7 

7 

7 

8 

9 

15 

7 

5 

7 

6 

7 

11 

11 

12 

13 

14 

9 

10 

10 

10 

11 

9 

1 

9 

13 

13 

1 

3 

12 

2 

4 

5 

5 

6 

7 

8 

8 

8 

4 

9 

9 

9 

7 

7 

15 

10 

8 

4 

6 

16 

1 

2 

3 

4 

8 

13 

14 

12 

5 

4 

11 

11 

12 

10 

10 

13 

12 

14 

14 

14 

14 

14 

10 

10 

9 

9 

8 

10 

10 

13 

13 

11 

8 

8 

8 

1 1 

4 

2 

1 

1 

1 

1 

14 

14 

13 

12 

11 

11 

5 

3 

3 

4 

4 

4 

4 

8 

2 

3 

4 

4 

6 

6 

7 

7 

8 

14 

14 

10 

10 

8 

3 

3 

5 

5 

3 

3 

11 

Figure 45: City Centre Masterplan 


CONNECTION 

ACTIVITY 

BUILT FORM 

PUBLIC REALM

CONNECTION ACTIVITY BUILT FORM PUBLIC REALM 

1. Sharpe Avenue reinforced as city main street with direct 

link to Dampier Road (after retirement village relocated). 

2. Karratha Road linked to Welcome Road to provide direct 

city access. 

3. Klenk Street realigned as secondary main street fronting 

Centro Shopping Centre and linked to Searipple Road. 

4. Karratha Terrace - new east west main street with public 

transport (bus in the short term) and safe pedestrian 

and cycle environment with traffic calming and at key 

activity nodes. 

5. Morse Court relocated, if possible, to create a direct link 

street across city running behind Lotteries House. 

6. Sharpe Avenue connection to City-north Boulevard. 

7. Welcome Road realigned to connect directly to Balmoral 

Road. 

8. Old Welcome Road connected from Sharpe Avenue to 

Pegs Creek. 

9. Balmoral Road calmed as urban boulevard with off peak 

parking and realigned at Dampier Road, to improve 

traffic management. 

10. Searipple Road landscaped and calmed as urban 

boulevard with off peak parking. 

11. Warambie Road traffic calmed. 

12. City-North Boulevard – new urban boulevard link road 

between Balmoral Avenue and Searipple Road. 

13. Crane Street – New link between Balmoral Road and 

Crane Circle. 

14. The Esplanade – Edge of city avenue including 

promenades and pavilions. 

15. Bus, caravan and large vehicle layover areas on Degrey 

Place with access off Searipple Road. 

16. Dampier Road designed to carry high volumes on a 

traffic calmed Boulevard. Future bypass links required. 

1. Civic buildings framing the entry to the City Centre. May 

include grand hall for urban University, community use 

and cyclone shelter. 

2. Consolidation and redevelopment of government 

buildings to create a civic and town centre office zone. 

3. Proposed in-city tourist information centre. 

4. Existing office area intensified with office, retail and 

residential area around historical well park. 

5. Core and secondary city centre retail zone in mixed-use 

buildings. 

6. Core City Centre redevelopment zone including non-core 

retail, commercial and residential. 

7. Street front fashion and high-end retail area fronting 

future link (Karratha Terrace). 

8. Future Youth Centre in Lotteries House when current 

uses relocated. 

9. Iconic sunset cafes, restaurants and bars around an 

urban plaza, which may include cooling water features. 

10. Major new commercial, office precinct with potential for 

government uses. 

11. Hotel or commercial use developed on drainage line. 

Redirect drainage to green link. 

12. Potential for retirement villas on redundant drainage and 

open areas. 

13. Potential for ‘natural’ amphitheatre for performances. 

14. Lookout and art and Pilbara Gumala cultural centre on 

Karratha Hills with performance studio, interactive and 

interpretive centre, cafes and links to heritage trails. 

15. Potential location for gallery or indigenous cultural 

centre. 

1. High quality three and four storey development 

consisting mostly of commercial uses with a strong 

street presence but well shaded and dynamic facades. 

2. Consolidated retail areas with large floor plate retail 

outlets behind street fronted development. 

3. Enhanced Sharpe Avenue and new ‘Karratha Terrace’ 

main streets with overhead shading screens, tree 

planting and urban furniture. 

4. New Public/ Private multi level public car park stations 

to serve city uses with retail and commercial uses on the 

ground floor and to upper floor to street frontages. 

5. Semi enclosed, semi private retail lanes through to the 

existing Centro Shopping Centre. 

6. Planned Warambie Road apartments with landmark 

residential towers on a low rise street fronted base. 

7. Medium density street-fronted residential development 

replacing short-term key workers villas. 

8. Medium rise coastal and resort style hotel, service 

workers development on public plazas with landscape 

views. 

9. Urbanised (Mixed-use) large format retail and fast food 

development with 2-storey appearance and managed 

use of signage. 

10. Mixed-use street fronted buildings with balconies and 

terrace and rear lot parking. 

11. Affordable and key worker low-rise apartment 

development on new public transport route. 

12. Church site with infill development set back from 

church. 

13. Coordinated redevelopment of aging Department of 

Housing and Rio Tinto housing into modern group 

housing villas and multiple dwellings. 

14. Low-rise residential development with home based 

business ground floors facing areas of moderate 

commercial exposure. 

4.0 

1. Karratha Green Link: Linear recreation and circulation 

link through City. 

2. City Park – Urbanised native planted park with water 

features, running creek and cool-off ponds play space 

and small events facilities. 

3. Memorial gardens enhanced expanded with building 

forecourt converted to a public plaza. 

4. Grand Square – A large public square under a grove 

of palms with an edge of canopy trees. Square will 

accommodate a kids water play area and night and 

weekend markets. The square will contain a mix of hard 

and soft landscape elements. 

5. The Quarter – A tight urban intersection surrounded by 

cinemas, cafes, youth hostels and apartments creating 

the nightlife focus of the City. A smaller civic square is 

located to the north of this area. 

6. Klenk Plaza at end of Klenk Street as an urban space 

with Karratha City landmark feature. 

7. Upgraded school grounds to provide an eastern side 

of the City greenspace and civic domain-style park and 

improved study sports areas. 

8. Landscape upgrade to drainage area possibly 

integrating a community farm gardens. 

9. Drainage area upgrades as a native creek with 

temporary billabongs and small lawn areas. 

10. Nickol Bay Park or Beach – A significant landscape and 

recreational feature, which may include an arid park 

or landscape feature or possibly a semi permanent 

billabong. 

11. Jetty over marshes or water or spring tided filled ponds, 

to a lookout tower. May also include a link to The Links 

golf course estate. 

12. Landscape sanctuary at base of Karratha Hills with 

start to Jaburara Heritage Trail. 

13. Intensified Karratha Hills protection zone. 

71

72 

4.0 

4.5.2 CONNECTION 

Key findings identified the following issues that 

have resulted in design response outlined within 

this section: 

Poor structure within the Town Centre where buildings 

are disconnected form the street edge and surrounded 

by large expanses of unshaded car parking 

Poor pedestrian amenity, where lack of pedestrian 

infrastructure is compounded by large areas of hot 

unshaded asphalt 

Poor sense of arrival from Dampier Road, which is 

unclear and confusing. 

Movement throughout the Town Centre is unintuitive 

and relies on knowledge rather than an intuitive 

understanding. 

The shopping centre and lack of connections inhibit east 

west passage through the Town Centre. 

Figure 46: ‘The Quarter’ Entertainment Precinct - Intersection of Sharpe Avenue - East West Link. ‘The 

Quarter’ is the principal entertainment precinct of Karratha, providing an assortment of restaurants, 

cafés bars and pubs. 

Figure 48: Sharpe Avenue (looking north towards Grande Square). Sharpe Avenue will be the central 

spine of Karratha, linking a variety of activities and destinations. Perforated canopies and street trees 

will provide the necessary climate control for the activation of the street to become a vibrant place for 

community activity. 

Figure 47: Civic Courtyard (internal space inside perimeter block development -may be a deck over 

internal parking). Minimal street setbacks provide the opportunity for car parking and open space to be 

provided at the rear of development, providing useable semi private open space and car parking that is 

concealed from the street. 

Figure 49: Grand Square – Central palm court of Murchison Palms. The Grande Square is the key civic 

plaza in the Karratha City Centre and the heart of the City Centre and its community. Cultural events, 

weekend markets and water features will elevate Karratha’s vitality and attractiveness to visitors.

Warambie Rd 

Balmoral Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 50: An improved structure with a rational street network that 

promotes legibility and permeability. 

Clear distinction between the vehicle and 

pedestrian realm 

Searipple Rd 

A fairer balance between pedestrian and vehicle 

movement 

Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 51: Providing a heart to the City Centre that is easier to find 

from the surrounding road connections. 

Searipple Rd 

Warambie Rd 

A series of interconnected destinations Curbside car parking 

Balmoral Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 52: Improved east west connection where additional 

connections and a public transport route takes pressure off existing 

road connections such as Warambie Road. (Source TPG Town Planning 

and Urban Design) 

Searipple Rd 

Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

4.0 

Figure 53: A finer grain through reduced street block sizes make 

navigation through the City easy whilst increasing the potential for 

activity at the street edge. (Source TPG Town Planning and Urban 

Design) 

Searipple Rd 

73

74 

4.0 

DESIGN RESPONSE 

Structuring Approach 

Commercial, entertainment and retail activity within the 

City Centre is framed by four boulevards: Dampier Road 

to the south; Searipple Road to the east; Balmoral Road 

to the west; and the northern Searipple-Balmoral link to 

the north. To the north of the latter, a lower order road 

intended as a slow speed esplanade, is provided as a 

more conducive pedestrian oriented promenade with an 

outlook towards the Burrup Peninsula. 

A number of organising elements within the City 

Centre have been designed to assist with orientation 

in and around the City Centre. The most important 

and prominent of these is Sharpe Avenue, which is the 

main street spine and visual reference axis between the 

Karratha Hills and the Burrup Peninsula. Sharpe Avenue 

acts as the unifying element to all east west linkages 

throughout the Centre and provides a direct connection 

to both Dampier Road and the northern Searipple- 

Balmoral Link, enhancing the ability for intuitive 

movement to occur within the City Centre both for both 

pedestrian and vehicle movement. 

A new east west connection, to the south of the traffic 

calmed Warambie Road, traverses the City Centre and is 

intended as a primary public transport route and traffic 

calmed pedestrian-oriented Terrace. Two significant 

drainage corridors cross the City Centre in a northerly 

direction, enhanced with landscaping to provide shaded 

pedestrian oriented ‘Nature Promenades’ through the 

City Centre, the easternmost of which interlinks with 

Sharpe Avenue. An additional link has also been provided 

into the City Centre by connecting Klenk Street and 

Karratha Road, which is the key arrival point from the 

North West Coastal Highway. 

As a key node of intensity, the scale of built form within 

the Karratha City Centre will reflect its local and regional 

importance, where taller buildings should be focused 

along key streets, major gateways and crossroads, 

promoting a strong civic presence. Reinforcing the 

prominence of street corners through architectural 

detail will assist in establishing an attractive public 

realm whilst providing landmarks for navigation and 

orientation purposes. Buildings should be iconic and 

monumental at key gateways such as Sharpe Avenue 

and Klenk Street, whilst fine grain buildings with a 

high degree of visual articulation will be encouraged 

throughout the City Centre. As the key gateway, the 

corner of Dampier Road and Sharpe Avenue is the 

intended site for the future Shire Administration Offices. 

The key objective is to establish an efficient, safe and 

more comfortable balance between pedestrian, cyclist 

and vehicle-based transport modes. In order to improve 

this integration, the impact of barriers to pedestrian 

movement should be minimised, without compromising 

the efficiency of traffic movement, vehicle access 

and car parking. The shift toward main street style 

development will result in the need for parking to be 

provided at the street edge, supported by some onsite 

and multi-deck car parks sleeved with active uses at 

ground level. 

Landscaping elements such as street trees, bicycle 

storage facilities, public seating will promote comfort 

for pedestrians, whilst also encouraging the use of 

alternative modes of transport. Promoting active 

facades with continuous awnings will also provide the 

level of pedestrian comfort to attract people into the 

public realm. Appropriate lighting, sufficient levels of 

passive surveillance and quality signage will also assist 

in establishing an attractive public realm, an improved 

sense of safety, whilst assisting users of the City Centre 

to find their way around more easily.

Establishing a clear role and hierarchy for each street 

will assist in improving legibility and achieving high 

quality street networks that respond to the needs of all 

users. Providing series of interconnected destinations 

such as plazas and landmarks not only provide an 

interesting experience for pedestrians, these element 

also assist in creating a more legible and controlled 

vehicle movement, consistent with safe passage and 

movement within a City Centre. 

Main Street 

Compared to the existing internalised shopping mall, 

main streets provide better urban streetscape amenity, 

encourage the creation of a public realm that is 

conducive to high levels of activity and interaction and 

promote community ownership and cultural identity. 

They also support activity outside of normal business 

hours and the creation of mixed-use development 

providing opportunities for residential living with an 

outlook over the street, which in turn provides for a 

safer street environment through passive surveillance. 

Smaller tenancies fronting main streets also not only 

add to the vibrancy and level of interest, they provide 

more employment opportunities and have much 

better capacity than a conventional enclosed mall to 

incrementally evolve and adapt to changing economic 

and social conditions over time. More intensive 

development and an enhanced public domain also 

encourage pedestrian and cycling, whilst also supporting 

the provision and use of public transport. 

‘Main Street’ type development is focussed on 

enhancing the public domain to create clearly legible 

streets, active streetscapes, connectivity, enhanced 

pedestrian environments, safety and security. This is 

achieved by measures such as nil or reduced setbacks; 

awnings or shade structures over footpaths; active uses 

on the ground floor; passive surveillance; screened 

parking; short term on-street parking and quality 

landscaping of footpaths, road and drainage reserves. 

All of these measures will enhance the Karratha Town 

Centre and reflect an urban form commensurate of a 

City of the North for 50,000 people and beyond. 

Finding the Way Around 

Good legibility within an urban environment is the 

degree to which people can orientate themselves and 

find their way around. Legibility is supported by the 

visual clues that exist within a place, which assist people 

to ‘read’ and move intuitively around a City Centre 

without fear of becoming confused or lost. The following 

factors contribute to this being achieved: 

Clarity of Structure: A rational pattern of movement, 

where relationships between streets and paths should 

be clearly evident throughout the City Centre. A visible 

hierarchy will promote clarity of movement, whilst 

a permeable and rational structure will increase the 

understanding of the City Centre layout. 

Landmarks and Vistas: Distinctive building elements, 

landscaping features and reference to the natural 

environment are important referencing cues to assist 

with orientation, providing visual reminders linking 

nodes and destinations. 

Character and Role: Areas and districts within the City 

Centre may contain unifying or distinguishing character 

or landscaping elements, which sets one precinct apart 

from other precincts within the Town Centre in terms of 

both its appearance and role. This promotes recognition 

and accentuates the sense of arrival to a variety of 

destinations throughout the City Centre. 

Clear Edges and Definition: Clear edges assist people to 

read the distinction between ‘here’ and ‘there’. Edges of 

buildings, parks, streets and clear boundaries of the City 

Centre provide clarity to the pathways between activities 

and destinations, whilst also providing clear demarcation 

between the public and private realm. 

The quality of building frontages affects the 

perception of streetscape quality, and the nature of 

exchange between the interior of the building and 

public spaces enhances surveillance and perceptions 

of safety. Pedestrian comfort, visual interest and 

the safety of the street environment are the key 

factors associated with streetscape. The following 

elements require consideration to ensure that quality 

streetscapes are achieved: 

Quality architecture that promotes a high degree of 

shading and visual interest to the public realm; 

Development that fronts onto the street with minimal 

or zero setbacks; 

Car parking that is sleeved behind buildings with 

active uses to the street front; 

Continuity of active shopfronts and avoidance of 

blank walls facing the street or public realm; 

Creative window displays rather than the use of 

window signage; 

Continuous awnings over footpaths for 

pedestrian comfort; 

The provision of living spaces and balconies to the 

front of the street to provide passive surveillance of 

the street for buildings containing residential uses; 

Larger scale development to be focused along high 

volume routes and larger development sites; 

4.0 

Human scaled development along lower volume 

pedestrian oriented streets; and 

Land use efficiency with mixed-use development 

encouraged to reduce the visual and impact of 

car parking. 

Key Design Elements: 

Moving away from current paradigms and 

successfully introducing main street based 

commercial activity and mixed-use development 

into the town centre is essential to providing a more 

efficient and diverse town centre that promotes 

activity at the street edge. 

Establishing a fairer balance between pedestrian and 

vehicle movement to provide safe, comfortable and 

attractive linkages between destinations and between 

pedestrian and vehicle movement to establish a more 

comfortable and attractive public realm. 

Promoting a greater sense of arrival into the City 

Centre and creating a ‘town heart’. 

Ease of orientation through the creation of clearly 

legible pedestrian and vehicle movement networks 

and improved City Centre structure with a variety of 

destinations with distinctive character supported by 

landmark elements for improved navigation. 

New main street/public transport link north of 

shopping centre; traffic calming of Warambie 

Road; and new northern link between Searipple and 

Balmoral Roads. 

75

76 

4.0 

4.5.3 ACTIVITY 

Key findings identified the following issues that have 

resulted in design response outlined within 

this section: 

A lack of precinct-based agglomeration of land 

uses within the Town Centre, which is evident in the 

dispersal of complementary land uses. 

Limited diversity, efficiency and vibrancy of activity 

within the Town Centre and the dominance of 

franchise type land uses 

Limited integration between land uses reducing 

the potential for synergies to occur between 

complementary activities. 

Limited provision of residential type uses in the Town 

Centre with no vertical mixed-use development 


Promoting diversity, functionality, efficiency and 

vibrancy will be a significant factor that will enable the 

transformation of Karratha’s existing centre from is 

current state to an active and vibrant City Centre. 

Shifting current paradigms that favour vehicle traffic 

movement over street based pedestrian activity is 

essential to creating an attractive, inclusive and 

interesting City Centre. This will require a process to 

overcome existing barriers to main street development 

and shift the expectations of the population to evolve 

from vehicle dominated town centre to a main street 

model that is suited to Karratha’s location and climate. 

At present, the existing shopping centre offers a 

comfortable interior, which, in contrast to the outdoors, 

may be preferable. However, creating a public realm that 

is also attractive with appropriate microclimate control 

is a significant challenge to provide a competitive edge 

to air-conditioned spaces and a greater variety of choice. 

Building upon existing strengths by defining precincts 

based on both character and function will assist 

in establishing a rationale for the inclusion of a 

greater variety of built form outcomes to support 

the diversification of the economy over time whilst 

minimising potential for land use related conflict 

to occur. 

Vertical mixed-use development will promote the 

development of a robust and adaptable City Centre 

designed to meet the evolving needs of a growing 

population. Enabling greater land use efficiency with 

multilevel activities on a single land parcel will be a 

valuable alternative to the single uses and expansive car 

parks that currently exist on land parcels throughout the 

Town Centre. 

Introducing medium and high density mixed and 

residential land uses is crucial to promoting affordability 

and accessibility within Karratha. A commercial interface 

at ground level will provide for vibrancy, interest and 

activity, whilst residential uses on upper level will result 

in a higher population within the Town Centre promoting 

increased activity and vitality. 


Promoting mutually beneficial relationships by 

through precinct planning supported by a number of 

Character Areas. 

Providing a diverse range of commercial, retail, civic, 

cultural and recreational opportunities within the 

City Centre Providing a viable and complementary 

alternative to internalised mall retail provisions. 

Promoting mixed-use formats that promote compact, 

accessible and integrated urban form. 

Introducing medium and high density residential 

uses to provide housing in areas of high amenity 

such as the City Centre. 

Places for non shopping related activities 

Mixed-use development to promote 

interconnection, safety and vibrancy. 

Balmoral Rd 

Wa 

ra 

mb 

ie 

Rd 

Da 

mp 

ie 

r Rd 

Figure 54: Active street frontages, interesting facades and the 

avoidance of blank walls will be a key feature throughout the City 

Centre. (Source TPG Town Planning and Urban Design) 

- Red represents highly active frontage 

- Orange represents active and articulated frontage 

- Blue represents service frontage 

Searipple Rd 

A return to main street design principles to 

enable activity during cooler evening hours

4.5.4 BUILT FORM 


resulted in design response outlined within 

this section: 

Buildings lack design quality and a sense of 

permanence. 

Few buildings in the town centre exhibit a Karratha 

style or local identity 

Little consideration for climatic design principles 

resulting in excessive reliance on air conditioning 

Large expanses of blank facades, limiting 

relationship with the public realm, contributing to a 

dull, arduous and harsh town centre experience. 

Limited diversity and inappropriate residential for 

provisions for a City Centre environment. 


Quality Design and Architecture 

The City Centre masterplan is aimed towards promoting 

an intensive, consolidated and multi-functional urban 

environment that will comprise quality architecture 

and landscape design to promote and interactive and 

sustainable urban from. The masterplan will provide 

a framework for the evolution from a fragmented cardominated 

urban form to a compact and integrated 

mixed-use City Centre. Built form should maximise 

activation and surveillance of the adjacent streets, civic 

spaces and parks through the use of design elements 

such as active ground floor uses, major openings, 

entrances, windows, balconies and terraces. Buildings 

facing the street should provide for a variety of uses, 

combined to ensure the protection of amenity of all 

users. Appropriate lighting to promote safety within City 

Centre is also a key consideration for all buildings and 


To facilitate the evolution of a consolidated City Centre 

and to promote land use efficiency, a general minimum 

height of 2 storeys and a maximum of 4 storeys will 

apply, however some sites may contain taller buildings, 

where only residential uses should be permitted above 

the fourth floor. Heights within the City Centre have been 

determined to provide a range of benefits, such 

as providing: 

Sufficient commercial, retail and residential floor 

space within the City Centre to facilitate the 

development of a functional centre for a city of 

50,000 people or more; 

Opportunity for each land parcel to be developed to 

its optimal potential whilst still being appropriate to 

the character, streetscape and setting applicable to 

each precinct in the City Centre; and 

Shading to the streets without the imposition of 

excess building bulk dominating the experience at 

street level. 

Whilst some high-rise development may occur within 

the City Centre, the form that this should take is 

for the lower, podium levels to provide active street 

frontages, providing an active interface with the street 

and an interesting and active streetscape experience 

without overwhelming the public domain, but acting to 

provide shade to streets and plazas. Sites that propose 

development above 4 storeys should meet a range of 

criteria to ensure that the additional height does not 

impede the ability for a consolidated Town Centre to 

develop. Taller buildings would generally be focused at 

the northern most area of the City Centre, along the 

Balmoral-Searipple Link and key locations on Sharpe 

Avenue. 

The delivery of quality buildings is a key factor in a place 

making process as they enhance a sense of place along 

with fostering community ownership and civic pride. 

Establishing a local vernacular that is unique to Karratha 

will be a significant step towards creating an inclusive 

City Centre that reflects its location and its people. 

Establishing a built form that is unique to Karratha will 

require guidance to develop alternatives to predominant 

shed like built form outcomes that currently exist. The 

challenge will be to develop appropriate design controls 

that provide sufficient balance between rigour and 

flexibility, whilst effectively communicating the desired 

palette of materials along with the application of 

style, sustainability elements and overall design intent. 

Ensuring that design controls are developed that can 

be applied to a variety of built form typologies, and 

are suitable and adaptable to market conditions and 

demands will promote consistency in built from and 

contribute to the establishment of a strong sense of 

place and 

local identity. 

Delivery of the type of built from envisaged for the 

City Centre will also require coordinated partnerships 

between business sector (building companies), private 

developers and government (Local and State) to achieve 

the City Centre vision. A substantial commitment to 

investment by the State government is necessary to 

provide the private sector and lending institutions with 

confidence, thus providing the conditions to attract 

private sector investment. 

Promoting connection with the 

outdoors and shaded alfresco areas 

Tall landmark buildings in the City 

A Karratha Vernacular 

Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Shading and ventilation to the edge 

of buildings promoting connection 

with the outdoors 

Dampier Rd 

4.0 

Figure 55 : Buildings are designed with minimal street setbacks 

with car parking located in streets and concealed behind buildings 

to promote greater activity at the street edge and improve aesthetic 

appeal. (Source TPG Town Planning and Urban Design) 

Searipple Rd 

Sustainability to be a key element 

in defining the local Karratha Style 

77

78 

4.0 

The origin of Karratha as a mining town was predicated 

on a number of needs to ensure that a supply of skilled 

labour to service resource related activities could be 

adequately accommodated within a relatively short 

timeframe, and with little regard for the long-term future 

of the settlement. Therefore, the existing character 

of the Town Centre is largely defined by construction 

techniques that responded to the primary need to 

provide a labour force, rather than the need to create 

a vibrant and interesting place, which has remained an 

acceptable rationale for development in Karratha’s town 

centre for over 40 years. As such, Karratha’s vernacular 

sense is a placeless reflection of utilitarian and rational 

construction methods. 

The term ‘vernacular’ is often referred to as a historical 

precedent. Whilst this is partly true, the vernacular 

refers also to methods of construction using resources 

that are available on a local level, and the creation 

of a form that addresses localised needs. Vernacular 

architecture generally evolves over time to reflect the 

environmental, cultural and historical context in which 

it exists. As a relatively new place, Karratha is at a 

pivotal point where lessons from past construction 

can now be culminated into some aspirations for a 

sustainable future that truly reflects the local identity. 

Given the remoteness of Karratha to suppliers of 

construction materials, construction has generally 

favoured the use lightweight materials, which are 

easier and cheaper to transport. Such materials also 

carry a low thermal mass that is a suitable material for 

hot arid environments. Due to a poor execution of the 

use of these materials, ‘temporary’ shed like nature 

of buildings evident throughout Karratha inhibits the 

establishment of local identity and a sense of place 

that is relevant to the place and local community. 

Karratha is now a significant hub for resource investment 

and delivery to worldwide markets, cementing its longterm 

future as a world leader in the resource industry. 

Therefore, the long term sustainability and the longterm 

survival of Karratha is a significant attribute in 

developing a Karratha vernacular. To attract people to 

live in Karratha on a permanent basis it is important to 

provide a place where people want to live. Built form and 

places that that are reflective of local aspirations and 

cultural values will contribute to a place that has its own 

unique identity. 

On another level, the permanence of Karratha cannot be 

considered exclusively to matters relating to the City’s 

long-term sustainability and impact on locally available 

resources. Promoting efficient and reduced resource 

consumption through climate and environmentally 

responsive design is essential. 

The manner in which a building is used by its occupants 

carries a significant influence on building forms. Given 

that the majority of Karratha’s future population has yet 

to arrive or reside in Karratha, the needs of the future 

population has yet to be defined. Although projections 

are made within this document with regard to some of 

the broader needs of those populations, the ability for 

Karratha to transition and evolve through its period of 

growth and beyond is a key consideration. Establishing 

robust and adaptable built form and urban spaces will 

ensure that building can accommodate the needs of 

an evolving population over a long period of time with 

minimal modification. 

Therefore, the following four key elements have been 

identified as a means of establishing a Karratha 

vernacular and built form that reflects local and 

regional values: 

Permanence 

Sense of Place 

Environmental Responsiveness 

Adaptability 

Breezways Shading and ventilation 

Detatched eaves to 

Wide eaves and 

Well protected outdoor areas for 

promote ventilation 

shaded verandahs 

public uses 

Drought/ flood 

tolerant landscaping 

Wide eaves to the east and west 

sides of buildings 

Articulated facades with 

shade awnings 

Colonnades to protect from 

the heat and heavy rainfall 

Design guidelines will be the key to the delivery of 

a Karratha Style. This section outlines some of the 

design elements and values that will be central to the 

development of design guidelines for built form and the 

public realm within Karratha. 

Bold shade structures 

The use of locally available 

materials 

Minimaisaiton of window area 

to the east and west sides of 

buildings

The following table provides an outline of design 

elements and principles, which should be addressed 

in the development of built form or design guidelines 

within the Karratha City Centre. 

DESIGN OBJECTIVES DESIGN ELEMENTS AND VALUES 

Permanence Durable materials and construction Local stone elements to balance the use of lightweight materials. 

Quality design Clear articulation of facades and entrances; 

Quality design that promotes visual interest; and 

High level of articulation in the built form through employing measures including: materials; projections; recesses, balconies; awnings; major openings; entrances; and 

roof forms. 

Strong relationship to street and public realm Facades that promote interaction between the public and private realm through large openings to the street and balconies; 

Nil street setbacks to promote a strong relationship to the street; 

A sense of architectural prominence at the corner of key intersections to provide visual gateway elements to the Town Centre and its street network; and 

Key intersections of Sharpe Avenue and the northern edge of the City being celebrated as key gateways through landmark architectural forms including tall buildings. 

Adaptability of built form Ceiling heights that enable buildings to adapt to a variety of uses; 

Mixed-use compact core including a mix of street-oriented high-amenity residential and commercial developments 

Sense of Place High quality architectural design Design elements and forms that promote visual interest, architectural articulation and sustainable outcomes. 

Continuous streetscape rhythm and character Avoiding blank walls fronting public spaces. 

Harmonious, safe and attractive environment Continuity of active shop fronts to ensure the activation of the street frontages with retail, commercial, civic and entertainment based development to the street edge 

with commercial or residential usage on upper floors 

Place responsive design Retain and conserve heritage buildings and other items having heritage value within the town centre; and 

Provide sufficient shading to major openings 

Cultural diversity and inclusion Cultural diversity to be reflected in the design of the public realm; 

Public art initiatives to reflect local cultural values and promote inclusion of a wide community participation; 

Community facilities that provide for a wide variety of cultural needs; and 

Acknowledgement of cultural heritage in built form, public art, community art and community activities. 

Locally available materials or materials that are reflective of Karratha The use of local stone in conjunction lightweight materials. 

Environmental 

Responsiveness 

Taking advantage of local assets and environmental opportunities Maximise the potential for vistas/ views to key locational assets such as Karratha Hills and Burrup Peninsula. 

Climate responsive design Continuous awnings over shop fronts for pedestrian comfort; 

Tree planting to maximise shade cover of streets – trees that form a large canopy should be favoured in the City Centre 

Energy Efficiency Sufficient shading to all windows entrances and major openings; and 

Breezeways to promote cross ventilation of internal spaces. 

Water conservation elements Water wise landscaping. 

Adaptability Adaptable architectural design Mixed-use development promoting a variety mixed commercial and residential uses, where commercial is to be the predominant focus ground level, whilst residential 

to be mainly provided on upper levels; and 

Ceiling to floor heights should be of sufficient height to enable transition over time to accommodate a variety of uses, particularly for any temporary residential uses 

on ground level. 

Flexible design controls Design controls that can be adapted to address evolving market forces including allowing for tall buildings in landmark locations. 

Table 14:Design Elements and Principles 

4.0 

79

80 

4.0 

Whilst the above is an outline of the overarching 

matters that contribute to the development of a local 

style for Karratha, it is recommended that prior to the 

development of any built form design guidelines or 

policy that seeks to guide matters relating to built from 

structure and style, that a design symposium be held in 

conjunction with the community and key stakeholders. 

This will ensure that future built form is responsive to 

the local community, climate and evolving 

economic conditions. 

Climate Responsive Design 

Establishing a sustainable future for Karratha relates 

to a number of social, environmental and economic 

factors, the balance of which tell a story not only of 

Karratha’s environmental footprint, but also of its longterm 

survival. The role Karratha’s town centre has thus 

far been closely related to resource-based activities 

within the region and to the consumer needs of the local 

and district population. Diversification of the economy 

to reduce dependence on mining related activities is 

therefore a key to Karratha’s long-term sustainability. It 

is essential that the infrastructure within the City Centre 

is able to cater for such diversification. 

Climate responsive design is aimed at ensuring 

development within the City Centre uses natural 

microclimate design to maximise natural climate 

control. The term may be applied to any aspect of the 

design process, and has been considered within the 

master planning, and relates to lot layout, the design 

of built form and public realm. 

In summary key aims are to: 

Maximise liveability through access to natural light, 

natural ventilation and natural climate control; 

Sustain and increase thermal comfort for occupants 

of buildings and users of the public realm; 

Reduce the need for mechanised, energy dependent 

air-conditioning devices; and 

Preserve and enhance the relationship between 

internal and external living areas along with the 

relationship between the public and private realm. 

Appropriately designed built form and urban spaces 

have the ability to mitigate or prevent the effects 

of excessive solar gain and reduce reliance on airconditioning 

during hotter months. This can be achieved 

through the utilisation of design principles such as the 

minimisation of east and facing windows along with the 

use of wide solar shading devices to prevent solar gain, 

whilst also providing shelter from heavy rainfall. 

Climate responsive principles are also relevant to 

establishing a comfortable and attractive public realm 

that is functional and enjoyable regardless of climatic 

extremes. Trading existing expanses of unshaded car 

parking and tarmac surfaces for tree-lined streets, 

shaded footpaths and gathering spaces will provide a 

welcome relief for users and visitors to the City Centre. 

The City Centre Master Plan proposes the upgrade 

of the key drainage reserves that currently bisect the 

town centre as underutilised open space. Whilst it is 

important for these reserves to perform their intended 

function, high quality landscape treatments will 

transform the reserves into key garden links through the 

town centre. By encouraging development to front these 

links, the drainage reserves become part of the city 

rather treating drainage as a problem to be hidden away.

Activation of the Public Realm 

Facilitating development within the City Centre in a 

manner that promotes land use efficiency, vitality and 

local amenity is essential to the Karratha’s long-term 

sustainability. Mixed-use development that includes 

an active ground level commercial interface and high 

quality architecture will improve streetscape quality, 

reinforce key landmarks and intersections, provided it is 

constructed to a scale that is appropriate and responsive 

to the nature and character of its location, provide for 

after hours activity and support the local 

business economy. 

The intent is not only to provide a residential focus to 

development but also to provide a range of employment 

and service opportunities in a mixed-use format for the 

benefit of residents, visitors and the local community. 

Promoting built form with active street frontages and 

commercial tenancies at street level will provide a 

significant step forward in the activation of the 

public realm. 

Providing attractive public spaces that cater for a variety 

of active and passive recreational experiences will have 

a positive impact on the quality and efficiency of the 

public realm, encouraging its use for a wider variety 

of purposes. The treatment of the street environment 

and public open spaces will provide variety and interest 

to visitors and residents alike, with quality paving 

treatments, public art and a quality interface between 

built form and the public realm, helping to define the 

distinct identity and purpose of each space. 

Comfort for pedestrians in response to climatic extremes 

is a key consideration for the design of the public realm 

within the City Centre and therefore shading provides 

a key role in providing a comfortable and attractive 

City Centre. The following figures demonstrate the 

importance of good urban design and landscaping in 

the shading of urban environments in hot arid climates. 

As new development occurs, built form will be designed 

to reinforce the edge of the street and public space. 

Providing quality architectural form and surveillance over 

these spaces will contribute to the quality and safety of 

the public realm. From an urban design perspective, the 

street will become the principal means of integration for 

activities within the City Centre, providing an equitable 

balance between pedestrians, private vehicles and public 

transport in a safe and efficient manner. 

Housing Diversity 

Providing a variety of housing types to provide 

accommodation for a mix of household types, incomes 

and backgrounds contributes to diversity and will ensure 

development of a vibrant and sustainable community 

within the Karratha City Centre. Given that the majority 

of Karratha’s projected population of 50,000 people 

has yet to arrive in Karratha, it is also important that the 

provision of greater dwelling choice that can respond to 

the needs of the community by providing development 

typologies and sizes that respond to a diverse and 

evolving demographic. 

4.0 


Achieving quality outcomes and a sense of 

permanence within the built environment through 

design controls that provide sufficient balance 

between rigour and flexibility that apply to a variety 

of building types and market conditions. 

Develop a strong vernacular identity to reinforce 

Karratha’s sense of place, through a place-based 

response to design of buildings and the public realm. 

Introduction of design controls that promote climate 

responsive design as a key element in the identity 

and sense of place for Karratha. 

Promotion of active facades and street oriented 

commercial activity, where buildings provide shade 

structures to the public realm for pedestrian comfort 

and climate control. 

A wider variety of medium and high density housing 

types and short stay accommodation within the City 

Centre to complement the existing dwelling makeup 

of Karratha. 

Figure 56: Shade Study Existing Town Centre – 20 March 9am Figure 57: Shade Study Existing Town Centre – 20 March 4pm 

Figure 58: Shade Study Proposed City Centre – 20 March 9am Figure 59: Shade Study Proposed City Centre – 20 March 4pm 

81

82 

4.0 

4.5.5 PUBLIC REALM 


resulted in design response outlined within this section: 

Poor quality pedestrian environment with a lack of 

footpaths, street trees, signage and outdoor places 

that promote community interaction or leisure 

opportunities. 

Harsh and inhospitable public realm due to expansive 

unshaded car parks and paved surfaces and absence 

of soft landscape and shade trees result in a hot and 

inhospitable public realm. 

Undefined and inactive street system adds to a sense 

of illegibility and inactivity on street networks. 

Lack of comfortable spaces such as plazas or 

smaller shady public places provide limited 

opportunities for meeting places or for public 

gathering. 

Drainage lines are a key feature of the Town Centre 

and are underutilised as public places. 

There is lack of inclusive and culturally relevant 


Balmoral Rd 

Warambie Rd 

Dampier Rd 

Figure 60: A greater variety of parks and civic spaces is proposed 

throughout the City Centre. 


Searipple Rd

LANDSCAPE PLAN 

The key challenges in developing a vibrant public realm 

in Karratha’s town centre are driven by the social needs 

of communities to interact and express themselves 

within places that are culturally relevant and inclusive. 

Town centres are the heart of communities and 

surrounding businesses are the foundation for ensuring 

this vitality where people meet, eat, are entertained, 

shop and engage in business related activities. Popular 

town centres act as hubs for culture and creativity and 

by developing both the physical and social environments. 

With this key objective, the community will also build 

confidence and pride in their town. 

In the physical sense, developing a sustainable town 

centre public realm for Karratha relies on establishing a 

collective vision that identifies and expresses its unique 

character arising from: its indigenous heritage and 

culture; its importance as a large West Pilbara town; 

the contribution and uniqueness of its surrounding 

towns; its unique landscape; and its role as a significant 

resource hub. Based on a place-based response to 

these elements the expression of character will become 

a part of the essence of the City Centre as the new 

public realm emerges with its own valid identity and 

sense of place. Subject to detailed survey works being 

undertaken, some notable examples of significant trees 

exist within the Town Centre, which may be suitable for 

retention, a particular example being the fig tree (Ficus 

spp.) located within the swimming pool complex. 

By initiating quality changes in the public realm 

through an integrated plan, it is likely that this process 

will stimulate a change in community attitudes and 

habits which are also essential to bring about a town 

renaissance. Community support is paramount to 

sustaining the ongoing process of developing a new 

public realm and the initial changes and projects 

undertaken must reinforce the perception of positive 

change. As the current state of the public realm in 

Karratha is poor in most respects, the revitalisation of 

the town centre will produce dramatic face changes. 

Karratha residents of all ages must feel connected and 

drawn to their new town centre environment by providing 

a wealth of variety, interest and activities in a setting 

they are proud to share with tourists and visitors. By 

undertaking major programmes such as street tree 

planting and the rehabilitation of the degraded creek 

lines within the town centre a sense permanence and 

consideration for future generations will be established 

that builds community wealth. 

The City Centre Master Plan proposes a diverse public 

realm with a variety of types, roles and textures. Overall 

the area of civic squares and public open space will 

ultimately total approximately 18%, far in excess of the 

areas stipulated in government policy. 

Vibrant Squares and Civic Spaces Shade structures Fostering local identity and sense A variety of open space options 

Figure 61: City Centre Public Realm Concept Plan 

of place 

(Source: UDLA) 

Note - Indicated location of Youth 

Centre is one of several options. 

4.0 

83

84 

4.0 

Figure 62: Karratha Town Centre public realm design principles 

(Source UDLA) 

PEDESTRIAN REALM 

The premise of new pedestrian plan for Karratha’s City 

Centre will be focussed around three new 

important features: 

Main Street (Sharpe Avenue); 

Nature Promenade; and 

Nickol Bay Park. 

These three public realm ‘arms’ of the town connect 

in a triangular configuration and embrace different 

urban and landscape characters. Nickol Bay Park forms 

the ‘finale’ at the northern end of the town centre 

development and ties the Sharpe Avenue main street and 

‘Nature Promenade’ together offering a wide range of 

family oriented facilities and recreational / 

education opportunities. 

The contrast between the Main Street and the more 

‘natural’, Nature Promenade and Nickol Bay Park, will 

be accentuated in their detail design, particularly in 

regard to: 

paving materials 

the design of shade structures 

lighting 

street furniture 

public amenities 

Other internal streets throughout the City Centre will 

have a contemporary urban character with appealing, 

highly integrated pedestrian pavements, seating, 

lighting, detailed ‘interest’ features, interpretative 

information and, most importantly, closely spaced 

avenues of native shade trees. Street trees in the City 

Centre will showcase native tree species associated with 

the Pilbara and, where space permits, gardens will be 

highlighted with swathes and bands of unique Pilbara 

shrubs and grasses. The exceptions to this theme are 

the new East/ West Road and Main Street (previously 

Sharpe Avenue), which will include exotic tree species 

to highlight and contrast the significance of these 

two streets. 

MAJOR PUBLIC REALM COMPONENTS OF THE TOWN CENTRE 

The Main Street 

The Main Street (currently called Sharpe Avenue) will 

be extended in both directions and form the ‘urban 

heart’ of Karratha. It will be urban in nature and 

have a high level of amenity incorporating elements 

such as squares, informal and formal events spaces, 

community and public artwork, water features, minor 

water play elements, alfresco dining and outdoor cafe 

opportunities, shaded walkways, extensive lighting, 

market day courts, and dense shade canopies consisting 

of exotic street trees planted in strong avenues. This 

diversity of amenity and a flexible design of spaces 

will allow all age groups to participate in creating a 

vibrant City Centre. Lighting is a particularly important 

element of the public realm Main Street design to allow 

activities to be extended into the evening when outdoor 

temperatures are highly conducive to pedestrian use. 

The southern end of the Main Street is dominated by 

retail and commercial activity and will be narrowed 

by incorporating further retail and commercial street 

frontage development into the street and allow better 

shade potential and cross connectivity for pedestrians. 

The present dominance of parking areas will also be 

reduced and parking located in areas at the rear of the 

major retail sites. The present landscaped plaza

area adjoining Karratha Village and Sharpe Avenue will 

form the heart of the new retail/commercial precinct. 

This area will be converted into a plaza with interactive 

water features, artwork, and extensive forms of seating 

creating a forecourt to the main shopping centre on 

the opposite side of the street. It will have multiple and 

flexible spaces to allow such activities as alfresco dining 

and cafe activity, Sunday markets, performances, water 

play opportunities, and general social meeting places. 

(edge of city) 

Figure 63: Proposed typical section(s) through the main street 

(Source. UDLA) 

The northern end of the Main Street will be widened to 

include a tree planted median and to reflect the different 

residential nature of this end of the street. It will narrow 

as it moves south to the predominantly retail precinct. 

The street trees here will eventually form an enclosed 

canopy over the street and covered seating bays will 

be integrated at regular intervals, aided by lighting for 

security purposes. 

Figure 64: Main street concept 

(Source. UDLA) 

East - West Bus, Cycleway and 

Jogging Link 

Main Street 

Town Square 

Exotic Trees 

Shopping Centre (Existing Mall) 

Junction Square (Connecting Main Street 

with Nature Promenande) 

Nature Promenade and Sculpture Park 

Sculptures 

Realigned Welcome Road 

Local Endemic Trees 

Sculptures 

Dampier Road Main Street Entry 

4.0 

85

86 

4.0 

 

Eucalyptus camaldulensis var.Obtusa – Red River Gum (to 40m) Eucalyptus torquata – Coral Gum (to 10m) Corymbia terminalis – Desert Bloodwood (to 18m) 

Eucalyptus vitrix – Western Coolibah (to 12m) Eucalyptus coolibah – Coolibah (to 20m) 

Melaleuca dealbata – Silver Leafed Paperbark (to 15m) 

 

Ficus hillii – Hill’s Ficus (to 15m) Peltophorum pterocarpum – Yellow Flame Tree (to 20m)

Table 15: Exotic Tree Species 

EXOTIC TREE SPECIES 

Code Scientific Name Common Name Height Spread/ Description Flower Soils and Habitat Uses 

DRE Delonix regia Poinciana, Royal 

Poinciana 

5-Dec Large spreading tree, 

Endemic to Madagascar 

FHI Ficus Hillii Hill’s Fig Oct-15 3-5m, Queensland 

native, 

PPT Peltophorum 

pterocarpum 

Yellow Flame Tree 15–25 Deciduous Tree, native 

to tropical southeastern 

Asia 

TPA Tabebuia palmeri Pink Trumpet Tree 15 10m, South American 

species, deciduous or 

semi-deciduous 

TTI Tipuana tipu Yellow Jacaranda, Pride 

of Bolivia, Tipu Tree 

15 5m, Fast growing 

spreading shade 

tree, semi-evergreen, 

Originating from South 

America 

Scarlet, orange, red tropical or near-tropical 

climate, but can 

tolerate drought and 

salty conditions 

Insignificant fast growing in pilbara, 

requires well drained 

soils but tolerates a 

variety 

Ornamental, dense 

shade tree 

Ornamental, dense 

shade tree, bird 

attracting 

Yellow Flowers Ornamental 

large clusters of very 

pale pink to pink frilly 

flowers 

White Sandy Loam to Clay 

Loam. Tolerates heat 

and humidity 

4.0 

87

88 

4.0 

Figure 65: Proposed typical section through the ‘Nature Promenade’. (Source: UDLA) 

Figure 66: Major Landscape Components - Nature Promenade 

Footpath 

Interpretive Signange 

East - West Bus, Cycleway and Jogging Link 

Interpretive Signage 

Local Endemic Vegetation 

Drainage/Seasonal Creek Line 

Junction Square (Adjoining Main Street) 

Sculptures 

The Nature Promenade 

The Nature Promenade will focus on the landscape 

associated with the seasonal waterways of the Pilbara, 

the white trunked Coolabah Eucalypts, Eucalyptus 

coolabah and Corymbia hamersleyanna and grasses 

such as Wandarrie Grass (Eriachne spp). 

The Nature Promenade is currently a seasonal drainage 

course with some areas of good quality, intact native 

landscape along its unlined banks. Other areas of 

the drainage course are highly degraded or cleared 

and channelised with some rubbish infestation. 

This watercourse will be rehabilitated and a wide 

‘promenade’ path meandering along its banks installed 

on the town centre side of the seasonal watercourse 

with seating alcoves, sculpture, ambient soft lighting 

(as opposed to the stronger and more urban forms in 

the Main Street), pedestrian bridge connections, and 

cycleway rest areas at nodal points. The watercourse 

highlights one of the most under recognised amenities 

existing within Karratha and provides great opportunity 

to celebrate this element. The existing developments 

such as the restaurant and medical facility, which front 

the Promenade, may be encouraged to create stronger 

visual links to this recreational/movement corridor. New 

development on both sides of the creek line should be 

designed to overlook this linear park with balconies, 

terraces, and open fencing. This will provide good 

passive surveillance along the Promenade and 

attractive views of the creek bed for the surrounding 

tenants and residents. 

Nickol Bay Park 

The Park sits at the northern end of town adjacent 

to the broad coastal salt marshes of the Bay. The 

park is intended to be a visual terminus to the long 

Main Street corridor and a subtle transition from the 

developed areas of town back to the natural ecological 

elements of Nickol Bay. The park will feature elements 

such as elevated boardwalks, sitting and viewing areas, 

interpretational signage, and elevated lookouts. The 

seasonal flow of water from the creek adjacent the 

Nature Promenade can be diverted along the park’s 

northern frontage and elevated boardwalks will be 

constructed to weave between the creek line and 

marshes. At times of heavy inundation the creek will 

overflow northwards onto the adjoining marshes. An 

interpretative signage trail could provide information 

regarding the important ecological significance of this 

landscape feature and the adjoining coastal areas. 

The park will be accessed from the adjoining road via 

regularly placed pedestrian access paths. Pedestrian 

entry paths to the park will cross a span of Pilbara 

landscape, which will showcase native Pilbara plants 

and provide strong seasonal interest particularly during 

the spring wildflower period. These plantings will then 

subtly transition back to the native flora of this location 

with the boardwalk as a final definitive boundary to the 

developed garden areas. 

East/West Bus Link 

The new, centrally located East /West Road forges 

through both the Nature Promenade and Main Street 

creating important junctions at their intersections. This 

street will carry the new bus service and destination 

cycleway/jogging path and link all Karratha suburbs to 

the Town Centre. Its bus stops will be the main arrival 

and exit point for Karratha bus users and visitors 

and will be associated with shaded bus shelters and 

information bays. Cyclists will be encouraged to park 

their bikes at these points in a series of shaded bike 

rack areas. Within the Town Centre this road will be 

treated as a ‘shared way’ using uniform materials across 

both the road surface and pedestrian areas with less 

formal definition (such as kerbing) between pedestrian 

and vehicular realms. Street trees and placement of 

street furniture will establish a sense of demarcation 

between pedestrian and vehicle ways to promote 

fairness, safety and comfort along streets.

Footpath and Cycle Path Connections 

The proposed footpath and cycle path network was 

developed in cooperation with the town planning 

consultants for this project in order to develop 

an integrated network that would incorporate all 

architectural/town planning and transport requirements 

at the same time. The Karratha Revitalisation Project 

also aims to retrofit missing footpath sections 

throughout the existing townsite, as well as continue 

to provide a comprehensive network of pedestrian and 

cyclist routes in new areas, in accordance with Liveable 

Neighbourhoods guidelines. The proposal outlines a 

comprehensive pedestrian and cyclist system, which 

integrates into the redesigned town centre road system 

and offers a clearly defined and legible network with 

ease of access to all town centre zones. 

Community Gardens 

Community gardens are most often instigated and 

managed by the community and therefore need to be 

located close to residential precincts. Three sites have 

been selected in the overall township for community 

gardens, one central to the western ‘wing’ of Karratha, 

another to the east and the third, close to the town 

centre in Pegs Creek along the drainage course (creek 

line) accessed from the realigned Welcome Road and 

southern ‘loop’ of Frinderstein Way. Facilities will vary 

according to each community’s interests but may 

include: an environmentally sensitive and self sustaining 

structure (which would include storerooms, offices and 

meeting/demonstration rooms), common gardens, water 

storage and water recycling tanks, individual garden 

allotments, bin storage, greenhouses, demonstration 

gardens, shop areas and, truck/service access. 

Figure 67: Nature Promenade (Source: UDLA) 

Figure 68: Nickol Bay Park (Source: UDLA) 


Figure 69: Proposed Community Garden and Possible Ecology Centre 

(Source: UDLA) 

4.0 

Proposed Ecology Centre 

East - West Bus, Cycleway and 

Jogging Link 

Existing Lawn Areas 


Proposed Energy Efficient 

Community Garden Centre 

Rest Area 


Local Endemic Vegetation 

89

90 

4.0 

Figure 70: Proposed Youth Centre Area (Source: UDLA) 

Sculptures 


Main Street 

Church 

Youth Centre (possible location) 

Skate Trail 

Nature Promenade and Sculpture Park 

Potential New Shire Offices 

Sculptures 

Youth Centre 

Three potential sites have been selected within the 

town centre for a Youth Centre pending a further 

feasibility study to select the final preferred site. This 

will be based on considerations including staging, the 

nature of adjoining land uses, and land availability. 

Based on consultation undertaken with youth groups, 

the preferred location for such a facility will be in 

close proximity to the retail core and provide sufficient 

site area to accommodate external facilities such as 

a basketball court, skate trail, car park, and passive 

outdoor areas (related to the internal ‘study’ areas 

of the Centre). External café facilities overlooking the 

active areas of the centre are also desirable to establish 

passive surveillance over recreation areas. 

The three site options being considered are: 

a) The area directly south of Welcome Road situated 

between St Paul ‘s Church, the existing drainage 

corridor (Nature Promenade) and the Main Street; 

b) The site of the old Police Station adjacent to 

Dampier Road; and 

c) A site directly south of Lotteries House – limited 

site area (off Morse Court). 

Other sites can be considered. 

Cultural Arts Centre/Gallery 

The favoured location for this facility is a site on the 

south eastern corner at the intersection of the Main 

Street and Welcome Road, adjoining the Nature 

Promenade. This highly visible site forms part of the 

entry gateway to the Main Street from Dampier Road 

and an ‘inspirational’ Gallery and Cultural Arts Centre 

would showcase and provide interpretative exhibits 

related to both indigenous and non indigenous regional 

artwork and culture in a Pilbara landscape setting. It 

will also acknowledge Karratha’s gateway status related 

to the remarkable national heritage site of the Dampier 

Archipelago and Burrup Peninsula. 

An external sculpture garden surrounding the gallery/ 

arts centre (adjacent the new Nature Promenade) 

exhibiting large scale works on a permanent or rotating 

basis and set within lawns and Pilbara-style gardens 

would provide a vibrant and highly visible welcome to 

the city at its entry. Local and regional artists would 

be engaged (in association with sponsorship and grant 

funding) to create sculpture that celebrates the unique 

qualities and specific sense of place of this region. The 

sculpture garden would evolve and develop over time 

and, in parallel with the Cultural Centre and Gallery, 

become a significant attraction and landmark of 

the town. 

A PEDESTRIAN LINK TO THE HILLS 

An important pedestrian path with associated 

interpretive signage will also link across Dampier Road 

(from both the Main Street and Nature Promenade) to 

a trail constructed up the gulley to the adjacent Water 

Tanks on the rise of the Karratha Hills (Stove Hill). This 

highpoint and connecting path will allow residents and 

visitors direct pedestrian access to this lookout point 

from the Town Centre. It has excellent potential as a site 

for an Information Centre with views of the Town Centre, 

the overall township and distant views of Nickol Bay 

and the Burrup Peninsula. This location also coincides 

with the beginning of the Jaburara Heritage Trail, which 

highlights a number of significant indigenous sites 

of the Jaburara people and is therefore a significant 

Karratha meeting point for both indigenous and nonindigenous 

culture.

Figure 71: Proposed Sculpture Park (Source: UDLA) 


Junction Square 

Shopping Centre 

Sculptures 


Main Street 

Church 

Youth Centre (possible location) 

Skate Trail 

Nature Promenade and Sculpture 

Park 

Potential New Shire Offices 

Sculptures 

Figure 72: Pedestrian Link to Karratha Hills (Source: UDLA) 

Main Street / Sharpe Avenue 

Shire Head Offices 

Walk Trail 



Water Tanks 

Start of Jaburara Heritage Trail 

4.0 

91

92 

4.0 

LANDSCAPE MATERIALS 

The unique qualities that define Karratha and its 

surrounds are proposed to be translated through design 

into public artworks, paving, street tree strategies, 

urban spaces, parks/public open spaces, and built form. 

For example, the predominant colours of the Karratha 

landscape (Spinifex, silver- white based gums, earth/ 

rock, sky and clouds in particular) are defining features 

of Karratha for both local residents and visitors to the 

area. These colours and textures are proposed to form 

the basic colour palette and framework for the Karratha 

Landscape Materials Strategy. 

There is also an outstanding and unique array of 

textures and patterns within the natural landscape, 

which can also be used as inspiration for the design of 

many elements in the Public Realm. 

spinifex clouds trees earth / rock sky 

yellow silver green 

Figure 73: Predominant Karratha Colour Palette 

red / brown 

blue 

Figure 74: Textures of the Region 

smooth 

cracked 

gravels 

undulations 

patterns

PAVING STRATEGY 

The textures that occur within the Karratha region will 

be alluded to within the Paving Strategy and the general 

Landscape Materials Strategy. Various textural paving 

effects are exampled below: 

Circulation Areas, e.g. roads, footpaths, cycle ways 

and focal paved areas should reference both the 

natural landscape and the local mining industry, the 

Paving Strategy will adopt a colour complimenting and 

contrasting the local red and brown earth colour palette 

for the main circulation areas throughout the town 

centre including roads, cycle ways, footpaths, and focal 

paved areas. 

Gathering Places, e.g. squares, bus shelters, shade 

shelters, parks should reference the cooler colours from 

the vegetation and sky colour palette would be best 

featured within focal areas where people gather and can 

be adopted in the street furniture colour palette. 

light acid etch 

(fine aggregate) 

Figure 75: Possible Textural Finishes 

medium acid etch 

(course aggregate) 

machine trowel hand trowel 

(rough) 

honed wood float 

light abrasive 

blast 

medium abrasive 

blast 

heavy acid etch 

(honed coarse) 

stipped natural 

exposed aggregate 

(medium exposed) 

heavy abrasive 

blast 

textured imprint stamp 

exposed aggregate 

(exposed) 

varied 

light rock salt light broom heavy rock salt raked 

inserts 

honed with inserts 

abrasive blasts 

stencilling 

stencilling 

Figure 76: Colour for Gathering Places 

4.0 

93

94 

4.0 

Figure 77: Car Park Elements 

AT-GRADE TOWN CENTRE CAR PARKING/LANDSCAPING 

The proposed car parks within the Town Centre will no 

longer be developed as vast expanses of asphalt and will 

include a strong softscape/tree framework. Permeable 

paving should be installed to selected locations within 

the car parks so that water runoff can infiltrate. 

Key Elements: 

Attractive Pedestrian Realm: Creating a public realm 

that is supported by main street design principles 

and is well structured, comfortable and attractive 

with appropriate microclimate control measures. 

Comfortable and Shaded: Overcoming the harsh 

effect hot summer climate within the public realm to 

provide outdoor space that is attractive even during 

the hottest months through inclusion of shade trees, 

shade structures and water misters. 

Diversity in Character: Providing a variety of 

experiences through design materials and texture to 

assist in navigation. 

Variety of Civic Spaces: Providing opportunities 

for meeting an interaction within the public realm 

through a variety of civic places, parks and a nature 

promenade 

Transforming Drainage Lines: Taking advantage of 

opportunities with key drainage infrastructure to 

create high quality open space links. 

Creating good urban places that people feel 

connected and drawn to, fostering a sense of place 

and affirming local identity, inclusive of indigenous 

and non-indigenous culture.

4.5.6 PRECINCT PLAN 

The City Centre comprises four distinct precincts. 

The intent of utilising a precinct-based approach is 

to optimise the development of mutually beneficial 

relationships within the City Centre and also to minimise 

the potential for land use related conflicts to occur. 

Each precinct is based on some of the strengths of 

existing land use patterns within the City Centre, whilst 

providing guidance to facilitate future aspirations for 

intensification of land use patterns. 

The City Centre consists of four precincts, which are 

outlined as follows: 

Retail Precinct; 

Commercial Precinct; 

Accomodation Precinct; and 

Entertainment Precinct. 

The precinct-based approach has the added benefit 

of managing particular locational issues associated 

with a diversified economy in a manner that maximises 

integration, whilst minimising potential for land use 

related conflict to occur. Each of these precincts 

encourages development of a particular character, built 

form and preferred land use patterns, the intent of 

which is outlined below. 

Figure 78: Precinct and Land Use Plan 

BALMORAL ROAD 

WARAMBIE ROAD 

Jey 

To Hills 

cp. 

cp. 

DAMPIER ROAD 

SEARIPPLE ROAD 

cp. 

cp. 

WELCOME ROAD 

cp. 

Retail/Mixed Use Precinct 

(Plus Oce, Residenal above) 

4.0 

Commercial/Mixed Use Precinct 

(Plus Civic, Cultural, Oce, Comparison Retail) 

Accomodaon Precinct 

(Plus Ancillary Entertainment, Cafes, Bars) 

Parks/Garden Nature Promenade 

Entertainment Precinct 

(Plus Restaurants, Nightclubs, Cafes, Cinemas, etc.) 

Future Medium Density Inll 

Civic Squares 

Car Parking 

(Primary Public/Shopper Mul Storey Parking) 

Road Reserve Closures 

Civic Focus 

Proposed Road (Mainstreet Approach) 

Key Pedestrian Spine 

Ped, Cycle, Public Transport Link 

Expanded City Centre 

Grand Square 

Exisng Cadastre/Boundary 

Building Outline 

legend 

95

96 

4.0 

4.5.7 TOWN CENTRE PRECINCTS 

The following section outlines the details of each of the 

four key planning precincts, identifying key features, 

a yield table and future intent. Furthermore, each 

precinct has been broken down into character areas to 

provide additional detailed information of the various 

characteristics intended for each precinct. During the 

process of preparing this City Centre Masterplan, an 

amendment to the Shire of Roebourne’s Scheme was 

also prepared to reflect this intent of this document. 

The preparation of a Town Centre Policy accompanied 

the Scheme amendment, and is also reflective of 

the desired outcomes outlined by this master plan. 

However, it should be noted that upon finalisation of this 

document, a comprehensive Scheme review and policy 

development will be required to implement the desired 

outcomes of this document in its entirety. A yields 

summary has been provided in each precinct outlining 

approximated projections of number of dwellings 

along with the area of retail, commercial, office and 

entertainment uses. 

RETAIL PRECINCT 

Key Features 

Main street shopping providing a diverse and enriched 

shopping experience. 

Mixed-uses with active uses on ground floor, office 

and residential above. 

Variety of public plazas, well shaded streets to 

provide an attractive destination. 

A range of boutiques and specialty shops. 

Dwelling 

Yield 

NLA Core 

Retail / Cafes 

NLA 

Other 

Retail 

NLA Office, 

Health 

Community 

Hotel 

Rooms 

358 33,400m 2 1481m 2 10,786m 2 181 

Located at the heart of the City Centre, the retail 

precinct is the vibrant focal point for both shopping 

and community interaction. The introduction of main 

street shopping, encompassing shaded tree lined streets 

and vibrant public plazas, will complement the existing 

internalised mall, providing a diverse and enriched 

shopping experience. A range of boutiques and specialty 

shops will feature throughout this precinct, establishing 

the City Centre as a key local and regional 

shopping destination. 

‘Main Street’ style development should encompass 

a pedestrian mall character, where development will 

maintain nil or minimal setbacks to the street, activated 

facades and form an intimate pedestrian based alfresco 

environment around the Entertainment Precinct. 

Tenancies along the Main Street will be limited in area 

to a maximum of 500m 2 to encourage ‘fine-grained’ 

built form and shop frontages to promote a high level 

of streetscape interest for pedestrians. Larger retail 

tenancies such as supermarkets will be permitted 

elsewhere in the Retail Precinct and often sleeved behind 

smaller tenancies. 

The Retail Precinct abuts the Commercial and 

Entertainment Precincts. It is envisaged that this will 

be where the main retail activities agglomerate although 

other small, scattered retail outlets will be permitted 

in the Commercial precinct. New retail development 

within the Karratha City Centre is anticipated to 

comprise ‘main street’ style development along Sharpe 

Avenue and along the connector between Searipple and 

Welcome Roads and sleeving the larger Centro shopping 

centre. Whilst retail uses will be located at street level 

and are expected to represent the predominant land use 

in this Precinct, mixed-use development with retail at 

ground level and residential or commercial uses above is 

also encouraged. 

CA 2 - Shopping Heart 

Building on the strengths 

of the existing retail 

environment, the shopping 

experience will provide 

2. 

a combination of main 

street, internalised malls, 

pedestrian mall and a 

market square. Whilst 

retail uses will prevail at ground level, street side cafés, 

restaurants and other social based activities will provide 

the streets with a sense of ‘buzz’ and attraction. Retail 

activities will have a strong connection a variety of 

civic spaces and public plazas, establishing a sense of 

gravity and attraction to other activity areas within the 

Town Centre drawing visitors to a variety of experiences. 

Multideck car parking will be provided and sleeved 

with active uses at the street front to relieve the City 

Centre of the visual impact of car parking and enhance 

amenity. 

Whilst there will be some main street shopping along 

Sharpe Avenue, the key focus for main street retail 

activity will be to the north of the shopping centre along 

the east west public transport link or ‘Terrace’, which is 

envisaged to accommodate high end retail activities and 

fashion boutiques. The ‘Grand Square’, which is located 

adjacent to the shopping centre, will provide a place 

for weekend markets to occur along with providing for 

the integration of retail, entertainment and commercial 

activity. Whilst upper level residential apartments are 

encouraged, the key residential component of this 

area is at the south west corner of the existing Centro 

shopping Centre where the existing building is sleeved to 

accommodate residential apartments to house service 

workers working within the shopping centre.

COMMERCIAL PRECINCT 

Key Features 

Offices, comparison retail and small showrooms. 

Street level commercial uses with residential uses on 

upper levels. 

Business collocation for mutually beneficial 

relationships. 

Community, youth, civic, arts and culture focus. 

Dwelling 

Yield 

NLA Core 

Retail / Cafes 

NLA Other 

Retail 

NLA Office, 

Health 

Community 

1,154 5,224m 2 9,033m 2 98,468m 2 0 

Hotel 

Rooms 

Mixed-use development including offices, comparison 

retail, showrooms and residential will underpin the 

development of this precinct including activities such as 

government agencies, employment services and medical 

rooms. A commercial focus will prevail at street level, 

whilst residential uses will be provided on upper levels 

to not compromise street level commercial activity. 

Opportunities will exist within this precinct for like or 

related businesses to co-locate in order to establish 

mutually beneficial relationships such as the exchange 

of services or support to establish synergies within 

the City Centre. This presents a distinct contrast to the 

existing dispersal of activities evident throughout the 

town centre. 

The Commercial Precinct is the largest precinct in the 

City Centre. It abuts primary regional and district level 

roads which demarcate the City Centre area including 

Dampier, Searipple and Balmoral Roads, which provide 

the centre with excellent exposure to passing traffic and 

a high level of access. 

The nature of land uses anticipated in the Commercial 

Precinct are varied. Office development is encouraged 

on sites with direct frontage to Dampier Road as this 

land represents a gateway entrance statement into the 

City Centre for traffic arriving from the hills to the south, 

but showroom uses are not considered to provide the 

appropriate welcome into the City and are therefore 

not permitted within this area. It is intended that the 

balance of the Commercial Precinct however, will permit 

comparison retail and showroom office uses, although 

tenancies will be restricted to a Gross Floor Area of no 

more than 1000m 2 to ensure that streetscape quality 

is maintained throughout the City Centre. Any larger 

tenancies such as large-scale hardware and furniture 

stores should either comply with this floor limit or be 

located within a more suitable bulky goods precinct. 

Although, at street level, development is to comprise 

commercial uses, mixed-use development is also 

encouraged whereby a residential component may 

be located on the upper storeys again adding to the 

diversity, safety and vibrancy of the City Centre. 

CA 3 - Civic Gateway 

As the main gateway to the 

City Centre, this precinct 

will provide a distinct 

sense of arrival into the 

City Centre. New Shire 

3. 

Offices, commercial suites 

and a Youth Centre will be 

key features in this area. 

Monumental ‘gateway’ buildings on each side of Sharpe 

Avenue will communicate a strong civic presence, 

indicating upon approach and arrival that Sharpe Avenue 

is the key movement axis and corridor with a high 

intensity of activity within the City Centre. 

CA 4 – Civic and Cultural 

Currently the home of 

the Shire offices, the 

relationship to retail 

activities of the shopping 

centre within this area 

will be enhanced through 

4. improved landscaping 

providing a bridge between 

activities. Cultural facilities 

such as a theatre, amphitheatre, outdoor cinema 

and church provide an alternative experience to the 

neighbouring retail, consumption and service-based 

activities. The addition of a parkland café or kiosk will 

provide an opportunity for people to enjoy a quiet coffee 

or lunch under the cool shade of a tree 

CA 5 – Office/ Banking 

Building upon the existing 

prevailing land use pattern, 

the incremental introduction 

of mixed-use will promote 

synergistic relationships 

between like activities. The 

5. 

types of activities intended 

for this area will include 

government agencies, 

banks, private office, and consulting and medical rooms. 

Whilst commercial uses are the focus for this precinct, 

a residential component to mixed-use buildings is also 

encouraged on upper levels. Development will present 

a strong relationship to the street and the existing park 

where minimal setbacks and active facades will enable 

interaction between the public and private realm. The 

park will be transformed over time to embrace heritage 

elements and become a well landscaped and shaded 

place suited for lunchtime gathering and a café or lunch 

bar would be encouraged to further activate this space. 

4.0 

CA 6 – Office / Government 

This mixed-use precinct 

will provide commercial 

and secondary retails such 

6. 

as sports shops bicycle 

shops, whilst also being an 

6. 

area for corporate offices 

to locate. Whilst there 

may be some presence 

of government agencies, 

private offices along with consulting and medical rooms 

would all feature in this area. Whilst commercial uses 

are the focus for this precinct, a residential component 

to mixed-use buildings is also encouraged, particularly 

given the favorable location of this area adjacent to the 

key public transport route. Buildings will be constructed 

with a strong relationship to the street with nil setbacks 

and will provide frontage to the drainage corridor. 

CA 7 – Inner City Large Format Retail 

This area is characterised 

as a mixed-use environment 

with a strong office 

7. 

component on upper 

levels with ground level 

commercial focused on 

comparison retail and office 

activities. Comparison retail 

would be a feature of this 

area with larger ground floor tenancies provided for 

outlets such as furniture and electrical stores. Large 

format retail would take on a more urban form generally 

a minimum of 2 storeys where large, flexible ground 

floor tenancies would be provided at street level. 

97

98 

4.0 

ACCOMMODATION PRECINCT 

Key Features 

Short-term accommodation including hotels, serviced 

apartments and resorts. 

Ancillary entertainment uses such as cafés or bars at 

the street front. 

Incorporates affordable accommodation. 

Dwelling 

Yield 

NLA Core 

Retail/ Cafes 

NLA Other 

Retail 

NLA Office, 

Health 

Community 

Hotel 

Rooms 

561 2,855m 2 4,246m 2 16,662m 2 492 

*Dwelling yields includes permanent residential uses only. 

Figure excludes hotel rooms and short stay accommodation. 

Located at the northern and western limits of the 

City Centre, a variety of short-term accommodation 

options will be provided within this precinct, featuring 

hotels, serviced apartments and resorts. Situated 

in areas of high amenity with close proximity to the 

heart of the City Centre, the precinct will cater for the 

accommodation needs of both tourists and visitors to 

the Town Centre. A small entertainment precinct at the 

northern end of Sharpe Avenue will provide broader 

public access to views towards Nickol Bay and the 

Burrup Peninsula through access to cafés or small bars 

to complement the main entertainment precinct in the 

heart of the Centre. 

The Accommodation Precinct is to include a range of 

short stay accommodation options including hotels, 

serviced apartments and resorts, but not entirely selfcontained 

accommodation specifically designed for the 

transient workforce. 

Whilst the predominant use within this Precinct is the 

provision of accommodation, some ancillary commercial 

and retail uses may be permitted at street level where 

they support the predominant use. Accommodation 

facilities may also incorporate other uses that contribute 

to the overall accommodation experience, such as 

Private Recreation, cafes and restaurants, which would 

otherwise be primarily located in the Commercial or 

Entertainment Precincts. 

CA 8 – Esplanade Resort 

With expansive views of the 

Burrup Peninsula at the 

8. 

northern limits of the City 

Centre, the key intent for 

CA9 is to provide for short 

stay accommodation needs 

of the town. Existing hotels 

that are located within the 

exiting Town Centre would 

be encouraged to relocate into this area. Resorts, hotels, 

motels, serviced apartments and accommodation for 

service workers would be encouraged on this location. 

Some permanent retail uses would also be permitted in 

this area. Campus style developments are not suitable 

in this area, in favour of a more urban model where 

development fronts onto adjacent streets. Larger scale 

buildings, with podium levels being built to the street are 

intended for this precinct to create lively and activated 

streets whilst providing and opportunity to gain views 

towards the Burrup and also across the town towards 

the Karratha Hills. A small entertainment based node 

would be located at the northern end of Sharpe Avenue, 

which may contain cafés, bars or taverns that front 

onto the street that are incidental to the predominant 

accommodation related activity. 

CA 9 - Balmoral Resort 

Short stay accommodation 

such as resorts, hotels, 

motels and serviced 

apartments will be the 

prevailing activities within 

9. 

this precinct. Incidental 

uses such as cafés, bars or 

taverns may be provided 

and are required to be 

located to the street front. Taking advantage of the 

parkland outlook, development would be encouraged 

to provide frontage to both the adjacent parklands 

and to Balmoral Road. May include some ground 

floor commercial and some components of secondary 

retail uses such as boutiques, sports stores bike shop 

newsagents. It is envisaged that Balmoral Road would 

form a character similar to Hay Street in Subiaco, 

with a character that is a mixture of a variety of 

accommodation and 

retail experiences. 

CA 10 - Karratha 

International 

As a key hotel and resort, 

the character of this 

precinct may transform 

to become more urban in 

structure, whilst providing 

10. 

the benefits of a campusstyle 

resort, including 

elements such as cafés, 

bars and entertainment facilities, along with much 

needed corporate facilities such as conference facilities, 

meeting and presentation rooms. 

ENTERTAINMENT PRECINCT 

Key Features 

Restaurants, cafés, cinemas, nightclubs, bars, theatre 

and amusement facilities. 

Activities will extend into evening hours when the 

outdoor temperature is conducive to street life. 

Appropriate microclimate control to provide a 

comfortable street environment. 

Dwelling 

Yield 

NLA Retail Core 

/ Cafes 

NLA Other 

Retail 

NLA Office, 

Health 

Community 

88 2,985m 2 504m 2 2,785m 2 45 

Hotel 

Rooms 

Cafes, bars and nightclubs will enhance the vitality 

and vibrancy of the City Centre. Microclimate control 

initiatives such as street tree planting, shade structures 

and water misting will encourage daytime street activity 

and alfresco opportunities at the street edge. A greater 

choice of nightlife in the City Centre will encourage 

activity when the outdoor temperature is more conducive 

to street based culture. With strong connection to 

the retail and commercial heart of Karratha, the 

entertainment precinct will provide a central focus to 

augment the role of the City Centre as a community and 

cultural heart. 

The Entertainment Precinct is located at the heart of 

the centre of the City, surrounding the Town Square. It is 

also envisaged that the Scheme will be amended in the 

future to allow for the City Centre to extend to the north 

and that this will also allow for an Entertainment

Precinct to capitalise on views over Nickol Bay to 

the Burrup Peninsula. The activities encouraged in 

thisPrecinct will provide good opportunities for passive 

surveillance around the Town Square and is anticipated 

to become a node for local residents to meet and 

socialise. At street level, entertainment uses will 

contribute to the vitality of the City, generating activity 

during both day and night periods and where alfresco 

dining can spill out into the street and public square. 

Development in this Precinct may also have a mixed-use 

nature; with upper storeys comprising appropriately 

attenuated residential dwellings. The types of uses 

encouraged in this Precinct are largely embodied by 

the ‘Entertainment Venue’ use as defined under TPS8 

and shall also include restaurants and cafes, cinemas, 

nightclubs, taverns, bars, theatres, and concert 

auditoriums. 

CA 1 – Lifestyle and Entertainment 

Situated at the crossroads 

of Sharpe Avenue and 

the east west public 

transport route (Barlow 

1. 

Place extension), this is 

the central focal point for 

entertainment and social 

based activities through 

the agglomeration of cafés, 

cinemas, nightclubs, bars, theatre and amusement 

facilities. This crossroads will provide the key theme 

as the ‘gathering and eating’ corner. Whilst office, 

commercial and residential uses are encouraged within 

this area, these should generally be provided on upper 

levels, reserving the street level for entertainment and 

social based activities. A strong relationship to the street 

will ensure the opportunity for longer opening hours 

other than those possible within an enclosed shopping 

environment, which will provide for activity during the 

cooler evening hours. Daytime activity will be facilitated 

through landscaping measures that promote community 

interaction and climate control for a comfortable and 

attractive public realm and a strong civic presence. 

This will include elements such as public plazas, shade 

structures and water misters for street side alfresco 

areas along with shaded streets throughout the precinct. 

Street furniture will provide for pedestrian comfort 

and respite. 

4.0 

99

100 

4.0 

4.5.8 RECOMMENDED PROPERTY STRATEGIES 

Adequate land presently exists within the Town Centre 

area to allow for short-term development required for 

implementation of the Karratha City Centre revitalisation 

plan. There are key sites for development opportunities 

and is detailed on the attached plan in Annexure ‘B’ 

and parts of the drainage reserve around the Karratha 

International Hotel could accommodate residential, 

retail, commercial and hotels uses in the short term. 

Other government owned land not immediately required 

for development in the city centre should be set aside 

and provisioned for medium and long-term development. 

The staging of release of such land should be reviewed 

regularly with consideration as to costs associated with 

developing such land. Local town planning should allow 

for flexibility in use in the city centre to enable demand 

form various use categories to be met on such sites. 

Provision of new shops and offices in the City Centre 

would be an essential part of implementation of the 

Karratha City Centre Revitalisation project. 

RESIDENTIAL 

The following points outline the context of key 

recommended property strategies with respect to 

residential property: 

The price of leased residential accommodation 

in the town is extremely expensive. The supply of 

service workers accommodation should assist in 

keeping rents from increasing further in the private 

rental market. Further land should be set aside 

for additional service workers accommodation to 

accommodate workers in particular who are not 

provided with housing or rental contributions for 

housing from employers. 

Increase single residential land supply, which will 

allow owner-occupiers and investors to readily obtain 

vacant lots for development of residences. 

A distinct lack of group (strata titled) type 

accommodation exists in the town. The development 

and supply of this type of accommodation is 

needed to allow more choice for home buyers and 

in particular to accommodate the needs of persons 

not requiring or not in a position to afford a standard 

single residential (non strata) type residences. 

Provision needs to be made for further supply of 

service worker accommodation. Additional Service 

Worker accommodation will provide for more 

affordable rental accommodation for industry 

sectors requiring lower accommodation costs and 

assist those not in a position to compete with 

corporations in the local market for rental housing 

accommodation. 

HOTELS 

Property opportunities exist in the City Centre area for 

land to be released to the existing three hotel operators 

that currently manage approximately 226 rooms to 

construct further hotel rooms on adjoining land if it 

can be acquired. Given the expensive construction 

costs in the town and the fact that cost savings could 

be achieved by tapping into existing infrastructure, 

such opportunities should be explored. A condition of 

any sale to the existing hotel operators should be that 

further rooms must be completed within an agreed 

short-term time frame.

RETAIL 

 

In conjunction with Centro develop further retail 

specialty shops that could possibly be constructed in 

premium locations along Sharpe Avenue and Barlow 

Place in the City Centre. Further retail opportunities can 

be made on the existing pool site and adjoining vacant 

land to the immediate east of the pool site, on Barlow 

Place which when combined, comprise a land area of 

19,172m 2 . 

On the basis that 40% of this site could be used 

on the ground level for retail uses then this would 

accommodate some 7668m 2 , of retail space and a 

further 30,672m 2 of space for commercial or residential 

development on the assumption a 5 storey plus parking 

development were constructed. It should be noted that 

some portions of this land may need to be excised to 

accommodate the proposed bus route through the town 

centre. 

A multi deck car park could be constructed on the car 

park lot situated on the south eastern corner on Sharpe 

Avenue and Barlow Place comprising of a site area of 

9,929m 2 . Such development could incorporate retail 

shops with extensive street frontage on the ground floor. 

Based on the Expression of Interest document for 

the 10 ha Tambrey Neighbourhood and mixed-use 

site at Nickol, up to 8,100m 2 of retail space could be 

accommodated within the medium term from such site. 

Development of this site would impact on the city centre 

as a supermarket of large size could be developed along 

with specialty shops. This would be a new centre and 

would be convenient to people living in this location 

or those from out of town locations which would pass 

the location before reaching the city centre. It would 

also be convenient to those customers that may have 

experienced parking difficulties in the city centre. 

The Karratha City Shopping Centre along with the 

four separate lots leased for parking owned by the 

government will play a major part to the City Centre 

revitalisation. As such Centro and the Government will 

be key Stakeholders in revitalisation plans. 

Provision of new shops and offices in the City Centre 

would be an essential part of implementation of 

the Karratha town centre Revitalisation project. 

Attracting new retail and hospitality type retailers to 

the City Centre will be essential. Major hurdles for 

such tenants in Karratha will be the cost of business 

accommodation, premises fit out, employment, retaining 

and accommodating staff. It is considered in order to 

attract certain retailers to the town centre that financial 

incentives should be provided. The types of incentives to 

attract operators could include the following: 

Subsidised workers accommodation. 

Waiving of rates and taxes for an agreed period of 

time. 

Rental assistance packages 

Provision of subsidised rent for commercial property 


Providing government or corporate owned retail or 

commercial premises to tenants at subsidised rental 

rates. 

Land leases. 

Land leases with option to purchase. 

Food Court and other retailers are needed in the City 

Centre to attract families and other resident population, 

tourists and possible future apartment owners. The 

following retail type tenants need to be targeted to open 

premises in the City Centre: 

coffee shop; 

fast food; 

supermarkets; 

food court operators; 

cafes including coffee shop retailers; 

arts and crafts; 

restaurants; 

entertainment; and 

toys, games and hobbies. 

OFFICES 

Existing offices in the town centre area are occupied by 

government and the private sector and are generally of 

1 or 2 story construction and most in excess of 10 years 

of age. At Present no opportunities exists for large office 

type users to lease or purchase large amounts of office 


The council may consider moving from their existing 

location to a new site proposed on the corner of Sharpe 

Avenue and Dampier Rd. This relocation will allow for 

the existing council offices to be utilised by others or 

for the site to be redeveloped. Other opportunities will 

also become available as other government offices 

are possibly relocated to the proposed new Shire of 

Roebourne offices on the basis such new development 

will allow accommodation of other users. Efficiencies 

should be created from the development of this new 

office by constructing large floor plates. 

4.0 

A flagship office development could be development to 

accommodate the shire along with other office uses in 

a key location. Both vacant land and development sites 

that could be released in the town centre will provide 

complete opportunity for government and private sector 

to develop office accommodation. 

MEDICAL 

Provision for the development of further medical 

facilities can be easily accommodated within the town 

centre area. This can be accommodated through 

developments that occur within the short term or where 

operators of such facilities develop in their own right. 

101

102 

4.0 

Key Intersections 

Figure 79: CA 1 - Key Intersections in Karratha Town Centre - PARAMICS simulation model

4.6 INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUPPORT GROWTH 

4.6.1 SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE 

A number of infrastructure related issues have been 

identified that will require further investigation prior to 

the delivery phase of the City Growth Plan. 

Additional to the environmental recommendations 

included in Section 4.3, Recommendations specific 

to the provision of infrastructure to support growth 

include: 

BULK WATER SUPPLY SCHEME UPGRADE REVIEW 

Fast tracked development of additional bulk water 

supply source desalination plant is critical to allow 

development in Karratha, with water efficiency measures 

to be implemented in the meantime to allow some 

development to occur. Upgraded town water supply 

scheme to define upgrade scope requirements. 

WASTEWATER TREATMENT AND REUSE UPGRADE REVIEW 

Fast tracked review and development of wastewater 

disposal facilities to define upgrade requirements 

relating to current growth and the City Growth Plan 

incorporating wastewater reuse. 

TWO DIMENSIONAL DRAINAGE MODELLING 

Completion of two-dimensional drainage modelling to 

verify land requirements for existing drainage function 

and to define parameters for future development. 

4.6.2 TRANSPORT AND MOVEMENT 

The Karratha Revitalisation Project Team, through an 

iterative process with all parties of its multidisciplinary 

team and using community and stakeholder feedback 

from the workshops, developed a future Karratha Town 

Centre Plan that outlines the proposed ultimate town 

centre transport network system. This proposal was 

tested with the PARAMICS micro-modelling software 

to establish the suitability and efficiency of the future 

road system, which represents the transport situation 

in Karratha town centre where the target townsite 

population of 50,000 is achieved. 

ROAD NETWORK 

The Karratha town centre was modelled as a component 

of the broader Karratha Townsite model. PARAMICS 

simulation model was developed for the town centre 

zone with the resultant future traffic volumes on the 

road network illustrated in Figure 89, which is contained 

within Appendix E. 

It is evident that the projected traffic volume for Dampier 

road near the town centre varies between 17,000vpd 

to 36,000vpd. A dual carriageway standard would be 

sufficient for this section. 

Searipple Road is estimated to carry up to 19,000vpd 

and therefore dual carriageway standard of this road is 

ultimately required to cater for the future traffic volume 

increase. 

Projected traffic volume on Balmoral Road (through the 

town centre zone) is between 14,000vpd to 21,000vpd 

and therefore timely upgrade to a dual carriageway 

standard should be considered. 

Figure 80: Proposed Intersection Treatment Measures for the Karratha Town Centre Road Network 

The proposed Northern Bypass road is expected to carry 

up to 16,000vpd and in line with the proposed dual 

carriageway standard required for the Balmoral and 

Searipple Roads, this road should be constructed as a 

dual carriageway. 

Sharp Avenue would be operating as the “Main Street” 

and a major north-south spine through the Town 

Centre. It is expected to carry about 6,000vpd near its 

intersection with Dampier Road. The traffic volume on 

Sharp Avenue will reduce to 4,000vpd to the north of the 

bus link and will reduce again to about 2000vpd towards 

4.0 

the north of the Town Centre. A boulevard type standard 

(single divided carriageway with a central median) will 

be in line with the function of this road. 

The traffic on Warambie Road is anticipated to be in 

order of 6000vpd-7000vpd, which is similar to its 

current traffic levels. The construction of the Northern 

Bypass including new east-west road link north of the 

Northern Bypass are the reasons for containing the 

traffic growth on Warambie Road. This situation presents 

an opportunity for traffic calming of Warambie Road and 

creation of a pedestrian-friendly environment. 

103

104 

4.0 

The projected traffic volume on the future bus route 

(west-east link through the residential areas) to the 

west of the Town Centre is about 5,000vpd. This level 

of traffic was achieved through traffic management and 

traffic calming of this route. This traffic is expected to 

be generated predominantly by the residents to the west 

of the Town Centre. The traffic on bus link to the east of 

the Town Centre is expected to reach up to 3,000vpd. 

The section of bus route through the town centre would 

carry approximately 8,000vpd. 

Further review and analysis of the PARAMICS model 

indicate that the proposed road network for the Town 

Centre would perform satisfactory with key intersections 

identified in Figure 80. 

In order to improve traffic circulation within the Town 

Centre, the following intersection treatments are 

proposed: 

Traffic signals are proposed for the Dampier Road/ 

Sharp Avenue intersection; 

Traffic signals are proposed for the bus route 

intersections with Balmoral Road, Sharp Avenue and 

Seariple Road to improve bus transit through the 

town centre (opportunities for bus priority systems) 

and provide safe pedestrian crossings points; 

Roundabouts are proposed for both Northern Bypass 

intersections with Searipple and Balmoral Roads to 

create opportunity for efficient east-west movements 

bypassing the town centre zone; 

Roundabouts are proposed on Dampier Road at the 

intersections of Balmoral, Karratha and Searipple 

Roads; 

Hillview Road/Dampier Road is proposed as a 

restricted movement (left-in/left-out) intersection. 

PARKING 

The December 2009 parking surveys demonstrated that 

current parking supply in the town centre is higher than 

the normal weekly peak demand. With peak demand in 

the town centre core at approximately 85% and 55% 

for wider town centre zone on Saturday and Friday 

respectively, this suggests that parking supply ratios 

could be reduced up to 50% at certain areas without 

compromising the operation of the town centre. In order 

to further rationalise parking space a decked parking 

strategy including revisions of parking policies may 

be considered. It should also be appropriate to make 

provision for suitable overflow parking facilities nearby 

for those rare days when peak parking demand is higher 

than normal. 

PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLIST FACILITIES 

The proposed footpath and cycle path network was 

developed in cooperation with the town planning 

consultants for this project in order to develop 

an integrated network that would incorporate all 

architectural/town planning and transport requirements 

at the same time. The Karratha Revitalisation Project 

also aims to retrofit missing footpath sections 

throughout the existing townsite, as well as continue 

to provide a comprehensive network of pedestrian and 

cyclist routes in new areas, in accordance with Liveable 

Neighbourhoods guidelines. The integrated proposal is 

illustrated in Figure 90 contained within Appendix E. 

The proposal outlines a comprehensive pedestrian and 

cyclist system, which integrates into the redesigned 

town centre road system and offers a clearly defined and 

legible network with ease of access to all town centre 

zones.



VOLUME 3 - PART 5.0

106 
























5 A NEW APPROACH TO 

GOVERNANCE 

To realise the Pilbara Cities Vision of the State 

Government to establish Karratha as a City of the 

North will require a different approach to governance 

to ensure the timely implementation of infrastructure, 

associated amenity and creation of economic 

employment opportunities. Local Government represents 

the on ground interests of the Pilbara and Karratha 

communities in particular. Therefore local government 

has a substantial role to play in the implementation of 

localised development programs and strategies that 

reflect the higher order, objectives and strategies of the 

Pilbara Regional scale that may affect the development 

of Karratha at a local level. A full description of the 

required governance structure at a Pilbara Regional 

scale is outlined in Volume 1, Section 5 and a Shire of 

Roebourne scale in Volume 2, Section 5. In this section 

the approach to governance at a local scale is discussed 

in more detail. 

5.1 LOCALISED ECONOMIC ACTIVATION 

At a local level, the Shire needs to maintain control 

over the City Centre and determine the scope and rate 

of development that occurs in Karratha as a whole. 

Governance and management of the City Centre should 

be guided by the principles of localised 

economic activation. 

Economic Activation of a place is determined by the 

frequency and concentration of transactions that occur 

there. The people present at any place at any point in 

time constitute the ‘users’ of the place. The users can 

be characterised as residents, visitors or local workers. 

The population and expenditure base of each group 

forms the economic base of the place and drives the 

commercial vitality of office and retail tenants. 

Activating Karratha will involve linking resident, visitor 

and commuter attractors to core activity precincts; 

concentrating retail tenancies to encourage life and 

vibrancy; maximising possible modes of transport for 

easy access; and minimising access routes to channel 

traffic past shop fronts. 

There are six principles of place activation that have 

been developed into a coherent framework to apply to 

urban renewal projects. These principles are outlined 

below. 

1. Purpose of Place 

Sense of place; that is, what does this place 

represent to its target user population (residents, 

workers, visitors)? 

Successful places usually emanate from a single 

point, the focus should be on establishing a core 

precinct, while the periphery will largely take care 

of itself 

Enhance land economics by using design to 

maximise the frequency and concentration of 

transactions 

Recognize that social capital building is one of the 

economic roles of a place. 

2. Access – Arrival Points 

In a metropolitan context, decisions about access 

begin 1 – 3km from the place. In a remote and 

regional context these decisions begin from a much 

broader radius. 

Transport networks should not bypass the place – 

does the design funnel people and non-freight traffic 

into the core? 

Congestion and mix of transport nodes is good 

Precinct users should arrive at the ‘’front door’ of the 

place, not around the back. The front door is to street 

and up to street where network is most intense). 

3. Origins – Car Parking and Transport Nodes 

Parking is the driver of pedestrian movement 

Strategic distribution of car parks and transport 

nodes will maximise pedestrian movement 

− Location is more important than numbers 

− Space the car parks around the centre 

Street parking is important (for commercial areas) 

− Charge no fees 

− Relax time limits on parking at off peak periods. 

Turnover at peak periods generates dynamic 

flow. 

4. Exposure – Pedestrian Movement 

Economic activation is driven by frequency and 

concentration of both economic and social 

transactions. Duration of stay effects number of 

transactions. 

Channel movements 

− Concentrate transactions by pushing people past 

as many shop windows as possible 

− Rents and sales are directly related to pedestrian 

traffic 

Minimise possible pedestrian routes from origin to 

destination points (e.g.: car park to main attraction) 

Disburse traffic sufficiently to allow streets to 

function as activated streets, not through roads. 

5.0 

5. Destinations – Major attractions 

Identify main destination – what will bring users into 

the core? 

Assess user behaviour 

− Number of visits 

− Timing of visits (time of day, seasonality) 

− Duration of visits 

Give major destinations special treatment 

− Understand what they need 

− Build centre around them 

Amplify the impact of attractions by creating support 

amenity and infrastructure to maximise frequency, 

length of stay and expenditure 

6. Control – Strategic Sites 

Tenure control is vital for overall development 

success – which sites (supporting what uses) must 

stay in public ownership? 

Identify active frontages and take control of key sites 

Corner sites drive uses on either side 

Not all areas in a place need to be active – be 

selective 

Have a plan and stick to it 

Residents and businesses will be attracted by the 

level of amenity that the Karratha precincts provide. 

Perceptions of amenity vary between and within user 

groups. Residents will be attracted to the precinct for 

many of the reasons cited above. 

107

108 

5.0 

Prospective commercial / office and business tenants 

however will have a different perspective on what 

amenity suggests. The convenience of close proximity 

to a transit node or route is one aspect of amenity but 

it is difficult to gauge how important it may be relative 

to other factors such as: 

− Affordability, particularly relative to other 

locations within the city 

Aesthetic amenity (access to views, recreational 

areas, waterfront etc) 

Clustering of like-minded industries and businesses 

The extent of supporting services and infrastructure 

Importance of access to supply chains 

Proximity to civic functions 

At a local level, the Shire of Roebourne needs to 

consider a range of factors and undertake a series of 

actions that will advance the development of Karratha 

including: 

Consider (or indeed, reconsider) the merits of 

changing the Shire of Roebourne local government 

entity to the Town of Karratha. This would impact 

on the branding and positioning of Karratha as 

a nominated future Pilbara City and may assist 

in attracting investment in the community. It is 

recognised that the Roebourne link has significant 

cultural and historical capital and that the idea of a 

name change may be contentious however, in view 

of the development trajectory suggested by the 

Karratha Revitalisation project it is a local discussion 

that should occur. 

Develop an economic development strategy for 

Karratha and the Shire as a whole. This is an 

essential step. An economic development strategy 

for the town (and by association, the Shire) should 

reflect a broader regional economic development 

strategy that is suggested by the governance 

model proposed in this study. In the absence of 

such a high level strategy however, a well-crafted 

and implemented local economic development 

strategy should act as model for a broader regional 

development strategy and provide concrete direction 

in this area. The primary aim of the development 

strategy should be to grow strategic employment in 

the town (in accordance with its sphere of influence) 

through extending local industry capability. An 

incisive economic development strategy provides 

guidance to the Shire (and its private and public 

sector partners) in terms of where to focus its 

development activities. Any economic development 

activity undertaken by the Shire should only be 

undertaken where it is in line with the economic 

development strategy. This is to ensure the effective 

and efficient application of limited local and state 

government resources. 

Understanding that, in addition to focusing on 

extending local industry capability, the economic 

development strategy should provide guidance to the 

Shire in areas relating to: 

− Improving the local business investment climate 

− Investing in hard strategic and enabling 

infrastructure (i.e. housing and accommodation) 

− Investing in sites and premises for business 

− Investing in soft infrastructure and services 

− Encouraging local business growth 

− Encouraging new enterprise 

− Promoting inward investment 

− Sector and business cluster development 

− Regeneration / revitalisation strategies 

− Project evaluation guidelines 

− Integrating low income or hard to employ 

population segments 

Recognising that the economic development strategy 

requires, and provides direction to the Shire and its 

development partners in these areas of resource 

allocation and funding and investment requirements, 

the Shire will almost certainly need to partner with 

private and public sector agencies and organisations 

who endorse the economic development strategy 

and the aspirational city development objectives 

suggested by the Karratha Revitalisation project and 

the Pilbara Cities concept. 

Reconsidering the internal governance and 

resourcing of an economic development function 

within the Shire. This should entail elevating 

economic development to an executive function 

within the Shire and recruiting a suitably qualified 

and experienced Director of Economic Development. 

The establishment of the Economic Development 

Directorate is likely to be a staged process, which 

will be contingent on resourcing and the balancing 

of Shire management priorities. Ultimately the 

function of the Economic Development Directorate 

may include the operation or oversight of 

entrepreneurial business activities and potentially a 

stand-alone economic development corporate entity. 

Such activities may include conducting feasibility 

investigations into service and construction 

workers accommodation, tourism development 

or projects that extend local industry capability 

such as the establishment of a local building and 

construction materials supply base. In addition 

to investigating such feasibilities, the Shire may, 

through a suitable business vehicle choose to joint 

venture the development of such projects with 

identified partners. 

This localised activation is to be coordinated through 

the proposed KCN Steering Committee as well as the 

proposed SoR Directorate of Economic Development 

that is yet to be established. The KCN structure is 

described in Volume 2, Section 5.



VOLUME 3 - PART 1.0

110 
























6 MAKING IT HAPPEN – 

IMPLEMENTING THE STRATEGY 

This section outlines the key strategies and actions 

required to implement the outcomes of the City Centre 

Master Plan. Whilst Section 6 contains high level 

strategies and actions, more detailed actions are also 

provided as Appendices where applicable. 

6.1 ECONOMY 

Aspirational Goal A robust, diversified local economy that effectively services the needs of local and regional 

industry and population 

Strategy Scale Action / Activity/ Project Main Responsibility Timeframe for Delivery / Estimated Cost 

Diversifying the Economy – 

Regional Level 

Diversifying the Economy – 

Shire Level 

Table 16: Economy 

Short 

(0-5yr) 

Pilbara Develop Pilbara Region Economic Development Strategy (REDS) PCO Yr 2-3 2 

Pilbara Implement Pilbara REDS recommendations PCO Yr 1-5 Yr 6-10 

Karratha Establish Economic Development Directorate in Shire of Roebourne SoR Yr 1 

Karratha Formulate SoR economic development strategy SoR Yr 2-3 

Cost 

($m) 

Medium 

(6-10 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

Long 

(11-20 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

6.0 

111

112 

6.0 

6.2 COMMUNITY ACTIVATION 

Implementation of the strategies set out in Section 4 of this report 

requires a comprehensive approach to program management. 

A summary of the necessary projects, studies and actions for 

each element of the Strategy follows. These tables assume 

implementation will be governed through the arrangements 

recommended by the Karratha City of the North Plan. 

Aspirational 

Goal 

Communities that are safe, healthy and enjoyable places to live and work, offer cultural, educational, recreational opportunities, provide appropriate housing and services and amenities; and foster active local citizenship 

Scale Action / Activity / Project Driver Comments Short (0- 

5yrs) 

Karratha Youth Centre 

Indoor facilities. 500 – 750m2 . Suggested features 

include youth drop in lounge, computer technology 

room, games, recreation (e.g. pool tables, table 

tennis etc.), arts (i.e. band/jamming practice 

room) on ground floor. Upstairs offices could 

cater for administration and services (e.g. career, 

counselling). 

Table 17: Community Activation 

Outdoor facilities could include half/full court 

basketball, skate and other multi wheel activities, 

climbing wall, handball. Flat open space if possible 

to ‘kick a footy’. Open space pushing into the 

nature promenade in the vicinity of the Morse Court 

pedestrian bridge across the drainage reserve. 

Community, Cultural and Civic centre 

A multipurpose community facility providing 

pavilion space (for meetings, functions, exhibitions 

etc), meeting rooms, kitchen, art studios and 

gallery (at front) and crèche facilities. 

Needs to abut an open space where large facilities 

or special events can spill out, thereby providing an 

inside/outdoor facility. 

Preferably collocated with Council uses where 

Council chambers can be opened up for larger 

meetings/gatherings. It also forms a traditional 

‘town hall’ type function. 

Public Library Resource Centre 

Library to relocate from existing site. A State/Local 

public library to be developed within the future 

community/civic precinct. 

Facility can be developed as part of a purpose built 

future community civic building that houses the 

Shire chambers, offices and community centre. 

SoR Lotteries House site is the best option as it is close to public 

transport, close to the city centre and shops. However this 

site is only suitable if access can be gained to the adjoining 

drainage reserve and the abutting land currently for sale 

(Viacom building site). 

Drawback is that it will not be available for immediate 

development given the implications of the east west road link 

through Morse Court. 

A short term solution in the town centre is the establishment 

of a temporary building on recreation reserved land at the back 

of the aquatic centre. This building would be subsequently 

deployed for other community purposes. 

SoR In new civic/community precinct at the Sharpe Road 

connection to Dampier Avenue and located in the new Council 

building. 

SoR In new civic/community precinct at the Sharpe Road 

connection to Dampier Avenue. Located within a purpose 

built future community civic building that houses the Shire 

chambers, offices and community centre. 

Cost ($m) Medium (6- 

10yrs) 

Cost ($m) Long (11- 

20yrs) 

Cost ($m) Source 

Yr 1 1.5 temp Yr 3-5 4.5 SoR/R4R 

3-5yr 25 SoR/PPP 

Yr 6-10 12 SoR / 

Industry

Aspirational 

Goal 

Communities that are safe, healthy and enjoyable places to live and work, offer cultural, educational, recreational opportunities, provide appropriate housing and services and amenities; and foster active local citizenship 

Scale Action / Activity / Project Driver Comments Short (0- 

5yrs) 

Karratha Community Garden 

Environmental demonstration and education project 

that features a range of environmentally sustainable 

initiatives including solar/wind power and water 

harvesting/grey water recycling (filtered through 

reed beds into water tanks for gardens plots). 

Facility to incorporate a community facility for 

educational purposes and site management. 

Establish a community ‘workforce’ for enhancing 

other public areas. 

By-products to include harvested food sold on site. 

Retirement Village 

Small scale: Either single level villas or three storey 

secure apartments with lift facilities and secure 

balconies. 

Table 17: Community Activation (Continued) 

6.3 ENVIRONMENT 

Large scale: 100-200 Independent Living Units 

(ILU) in a mix of villa’s and apartments with 

facilities such as landscaped gardens, pool, dining 

hall, recreation rooms, minimart, hairdresser and 

bus to town/Tambrey. 

SoR West of Hillview Road, north of Karratha International Hotel 

adjacent to park. Needs to abut high density residential 

creating a ‘backyard’ for the residents. 

SoR Small scale option 1: Relocate existing ILU’s to facilitate 

Sharpe Avenue extension. 

LandCorp/ 

Private 

Large scale option 1: Larger site on Searipple Road /Hunt 

Street at current Karratha Entertainment Complex site. 

Private Large scale option 2: Nursing home collocated with hospital 

on Dampier Road with larger ILU complex and facilities. 

Cost ($m) Medium (6- 

10yrs) 

Cost ($m) Long (11- 

20yrs) 

6.0 

Cost ($m) Source 

Yr2-5 2.75 SoR / 

Industry 

Yr 1 11.3 SoR/ 

LandCorp 

Aspirational Goal Local, regional and global eco-systems in which landform, habitat and biodiversity are retained and that provide natural provisioning, regulating and cultural services. 

Strategy Scale Action / Activity / Project Driver Timeframe for Delivery / Estimated Cost 

Coastal Vulnerability Strategy* Karratha Undertake a coastal risk assessment for the Karratha 

region that identifies extreme water levels associated with 

storm surge and climatically induced sea level rise. 

Short 

(0-5yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

6-10 30 LC/Private/ 

NFP 

Medium 

(6-10 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

11-20 50 SoR/PPP 

Long 

(11-20 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

Source 

DoP Yr 1 0.3 DoP /LandCorp 

Table 18: Environment 

* Note: Coastal vulnerability assessment is relevant mainly to the broader Karratha Township, however the outcomes of this study will provide the resolution required to facilitate growth at the proposed northern extents of the future City Centre. 

113

114 

6.0 

6.4 BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC REALM 

6.4.1 GOVERNANCE AND POLICY DEVELOPMENT 

Aspirational Goal An urban form that reflects the intrinsic qualities of the site context, characteristics and relationships and complements the natural environment; with centres that are vibrant, dynamic, diverse and functional 

Strategy Scale Action / Activity/ Project Driver Timeframe for Delivery / Estimated Cost 

Coastal Vulnerability 

Strategy* 

An Integrated 

Movement Network 

Karratha Prepare and adopt planning policies for: City Centre, 

Transient Worker Accommodation, Home Occupation, 

Subdivision, Contribution Costs etc. 

Prepare and lodge Precinct scale Development Plans and 

DAPs 

City Centre Design and implement precinct development works 

including earthworks / retaining, services, roadworks, 

landscaping 

Karratha See Infrastructure 

Public Realm Karratha Develop a public realm policy and design guidelines 

(including irrigation and maintenance) 

Table 19: Governance and Policy Development 

Short 

(0-5yr) 

Cost($m) Medium 

(6-10 yr) 

Cost ($m) Long 

(11-20 yr) 

Cost$m Source 

SoR Yr 1-4 0.06 SoR 

Landowners Yr 1-5 Yr 6-10 Yr 11-20 Landowners 

Landowners Yr 1-5 Yr 6-10 Yr 11-20 Landowners 

SoR Yr 1 0.1 SoR 

Establish a strategy to implement public realm initiatives SoR Yr 1-2 0.2 SoR 

Carry out demonstration projects in key areas in the city 

centre 

Implement priority city centre projects: nature promenade, 

Sharp Avenue (initial stages), town square, Nickol Bay 

park, Cattrall Park, Pilbara Gumala Cultural Centre, Living 

Cultural Capital project 

SoR Yr 1-5 0.75 

annually 

LandCorp/Private 

Sector 

Yr 6-10 0.5 annually Yr 11-20 0.5 annually SoR/Industry 

Yr 1-5 30 R4R/SoR

6.4.2 PROJECTS AND STRATEGIES 


Strategy Scale Action / Activity / Project Main Responsibility Timeframe for Delivery / Estimated Cost 

Short 

Cost Medium Cost 

Long Cost 

Source 

(0-5yr) 

($m) 

(6-10 yr) ($m) 

(11-20 yr) ($m) 

Connection City Centre 1. Sharpe Avenue reinforced as city main street with direct 

link to Dampier Road (after retirement village relocated) 

Table 20: Projects and Strategies 

Design, approvals and construction 

Relocation of retirement village required. Design 

separation from Balmoral Road may require Balmoral 

Road to be deviated further to the west 


city access 



Centro Shopping Centre and linked to Searipple Road 

Design, approvals and construction by Shire of 

Roebourne. Land swaps required with Centro and 

Department of Lands 




activity nodes 

Design, approvals and construction by SoR 

Land swaps required with Centro and other property 

owners and Department of Lands. Bus link may 

commence with deviation in the short term pending 

construction of link through City 

5. Morse Court relocated, if possible, to create a direct 

link street across city running behind Lotteries House 

6. Sharpe Avenue connection to City-north Boulevard 

Short term pedestrian and cycle link to be provided as 

part service workers accommodation 

Future link Design, approvals and construction Land 

swaps required 

SoR/LandCorp/Private 

Sector 


Sector 


Sector 


Sector 


Sectore 


Sectore 

Yr 1-3 $6m SoR/R4R 

Y 1-5 $2m R4R 

Y 1-5 $1.5m SoR/R4R 

Y 1-5 $5.5m SoR/R4R 

Y 1-5 $1m SoR 

Y 1-5 $0.1m 

Y-6-10 

$2m 

SoR/R4R 

6.0 

115

116 

6.0 



Short 


Long Cost 

Source 

(0-5yr) 

($m) 

(6-10 yr) ($m) 

(11-20 yr) ($m) 

Connection (Continued) City Centre 7. Welcome Road realigned to connect directly to Balmoral 

Road. 

Table 20: Projects and Strategies (Continued) 


Roebourne. Relocation of retirement village required. 

Design separation from Balmoral Road may require 

Balmoral Road to be deviated further to the west. 


Pegs Creek. 


Roebourne. 

Land assembly required with Department of Lands. 

9. Balmoral Road and calmed as urban boulevard with 

off peak parking and realigned at Dampier Road, to 

improve traffic management. 












Design, approvals and construction by MRWA 


Crane Circle. 




Design, approvals and construction by developers 

15. Bus, caravan and large vehicle layover areas on DeGrey 





Design, approvals and construction by MRWA 


Sector 


Sector 


Sector 


Sector 


Sector 

Y 1-5 $1.75m SoR/R4R 

Y 1-5 $1.25m SoR/R4R 

Y 6-10 $4m SoR/R4R 

Y 6-10 $1.15m SoR/R4R 

Y 1-5 $1m SoR/R4R 

MRWA Y 6-10 $9m MRWA 


Sector 


Sector 


Sector 

Y 6-10 $2m SoR/R4R 

Y 6-10 NA SoR/R4R 

Y 1-5 $0.75m SoR/R4R 

SoR/MRWA Y 6-10 $14m SoR/MRWA



Short 


Long Cost 

Source 

(0-5yr) 

($m) 

(6-10 yr) ($m) 

(11-20 yr) ($m) 

Built Form City Centre 1. High quality three and four storey development 

consisting mostly of commercial uses with a strong 

street presence but a well shaded and dynamic facades. 


2. Consolidated retail areas with large floor plate retail 

outlets behind street fronted development. 

3. Enhanced Sharpe Avenue and new ‘Karratha Terrace’ 

main streets with overhead shading screens, tree 

planting and urban furniture 

Shading by developers as contribution. 

4. New Public/ Private multi level public car park stations 

to serve city uses with retail and commercial uses on 

the ground floor and to upper floor to street frontages. 

5. Semi enclosed, semi private retail lanes through to the 

existing Centro Shopping Centre. 

6. Planned Warambie Road apartments with landmark 

residential towers on a low rise street fronted base. 

7. Medium density street-fronted residential development 

replacing short term key workers villas. 


workers development on public plazas with landscape 

views. 

9. Urbanised large format retail and fast food development 

with 2 storey appearance and managed use of signage. 

10. Mixed-use street fronted buildings with balconies and 

terrace and rear lot parking. 

11. Affordable and key worker low-rise apartment 


12. Church sites with infill development set back 

from church. 

13. Coordinated redevelopment of aging Department of 

Housing and Rio Tinto housing into modern group 

housing villas and multiple dwellings. 




Developers (under SoR 

Policy Guidance) 




Policy Guidance). 



















Department of Housing, 





Y 1-5 NA Y 6-10 NA SoR 

Y 1-5 NA Y 6-10 NA SoR 

Y 1-5 NA 

Y 1-5 NA 

Y 1-5 NA 

Y 1-5 NA 

Y 6-10 NA 

Y 6-10 NA 

Y 1-5 NA Y 6-10 NA 

Y 1-5 NA 

Y 1-5 NA Y 6-10 NA 

Y 6-10 NA 

Y 11-20 NA 

Y 11-20 NA 

6.0 

117

118 

6.0 



Short 


Long Cost 

Source 

(0-5yr) 

($m) 

(6-10 yr) ($m) 

(11-20 yr) ($m) 

Public Realm City Centre 1. Karratha Green Link: Linear recreation and circulation 

link through City. 


2. City Park – Urbanised native planted park with water 

features, running creek and cool-off ponds play space and 

small events facilities. 

3. Memorial gardens enhanced expanded with building 

forecourt converted to a public plaza. 

4. Grand Square – A large public square under a grove 

of palms with an edge of canopy trees. Square will 

accommodate a kids water play area and night and 

weekend markets. 

5. The Quarter – A tight urban intersection surrounded by 

cinemas, cafes, youth hostels and apartments creating the 

nightlife focus of the City. 

6. Klenk Plaza at end of Klenk Street as an urban space 

with Karratha City landmark feature. 

7. Upgraded school grounds to provide an eastern side 

of the City greenspace and civic domain-style park and 

improved study sports areas. 

8. Landscape upgrade to drainage area possibly integrating 

a community farm gardens. 

9. Drainage area upgrades as a native creek with temporary 

billabongs and small lawn areas. 

10. Nickol Bay Park or Beach – A significant landscape 

and recreational feature, which may include an arid park or 

landscape feature or possibly a semi permanent billabong. 

11. Jetty over marshes or water or spring tided filled ponds, 

to a lookout tower. May also include a link to The Links golf 

course estate. 

12. Landscape sanctuary at base of Karratha Hills with 

start to Jaburara Heritage Trail. 

13. Intensified Karratha Hills protection zone. Shire of Roebourne to 

develop policy 

LandCorp/Private Sector Y 1-5 $2m LandCorp/R4R 

Y 1-5 $5m LandCorp/R4R 

SoR Y 1-5 $1m SoR 

LandCorp/Private Sector Y 1-5 $5m LandCorp/R4R 

LandCorp/Private Sector Y 1-5 $0.5m LandCorp/R4R 

LandCorp/Private Sector Y 1-5 $1m Y 6-10 $1m LandCorp/R4R 

LandCorp/DET Y 6-10 $2m LandCorp/DET 

SoR Y 1-5 $5m Y 6-10 $5m SoR 

SoR Y 1-5 $5m Y 6-10 $5m SoR 




Y 1-5 $0.2 mill SoR

6.5 INFRASTRUCTURE 



Water Distribution 

Upgrade 

City Centre Immediate needs - distribution mains, wastewater, storage tanks, CC 

upgrades, wastewater upgrades / pump stations 

Short 

(0-5yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

Medium 

(6-10 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

Long 

(11-20 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

Source 

Water Corp Yr 2-5 37 Yr 6-10 36 Watercorp 

City Centre ring main and connection upgrade Water Corp Yr2-5 5 Water Corp 

City Centre pump station upgrade Water Corp Yr1-5 10 Water Corp 

Power supply City Centre Extra 22 kv feeders to City Centre Horizon Power Y1-5 3 

District Water 

Management Strategy 

(DWMS) 

An Integrated 

Transport Strategy 

Energy and GHG 

Management Strategy 

Table 21: Infrastructure 

City Centre Prepare a LWMS for City Centre in accordance with the Better Urban 

Water Management guidelines 

LandCorp/DoW Yr 2-3 0.1 LandCorp 

Feasibility study of district cooling for city centre PCO Yr 2-5 0.25 PCO 

City Centre Sharpe Ave extension & upgrade SoR/LandCorp/Private 

Sector 

City Centre Roadworks & traffic lights SoR/LandCorp/Private 

Sector 

Yr1-5 8 SoR/LandCorp/ 

Private Sector 



Far Northern City Bypass Main Roads Yr11-20 33 Main Roads 

Balmoral Road upgrades SoR/LandCorp/Private 

Sector 



Northern City Bypass Main Roads Yr6-10 9 Main Roads 

Design and construction of Sharpe Avenue, city centre, bus routes 

stage 1 

Townsite calming / downgrade, northern city bypass, airport road, 

Madigan Road bypass, Bus route stage 2, Balmoral Road upgrade 

Design and construction of pathways, cycle routes, bridges and 

landscaping 

LandCorp Yr 1-5 52 LandCorp/Private 

Sector 


Sector 


Sector 

City Centre Feasibility study of district cooling for city centre PCO Yr 2-5 0.25 PCO 

6.0 

119

120 

6.0 

6.6 PROPERTY AND ACQUISITIONS 

In order to facilitate coordinated development within the 

City Centre, some land rationalisation will be required to 

provide the land needed for new connections. This will 

mean that certain land parcels or portions thereof may 

be subject to land swap arrangement or acquisitions 

or in some cases, additional land area may be come 

available providing additional development potential for 

those land owners . 

6.7 STAGING 

Prioritisation of projects within the City Centre has been 

determined based on the potential for each project to 

result in the greatest impact on the Town Centre, not 

only in terms its potential to lead to quality places 

and built form, but also for their potential to provide 

the economic confidence and commitment required 

to attract private sector investment into the future. 

In particular, the staging of development in the City 

Centre is predicated primarily on the establishment 

of a central heart and to reinforce the level of service 

and retail provision within the existing Town Centre in 

a consolidated manner. Therefore, the focus is upon 

establishing Sharpe Avenue as the main street and key 

pedestrian spine and facilitating the change in the nature 

of the built form in on adjacent land parcels to create 

a quality pedestrian environment and improvement of 

access into the City Centre for both pedestrians and 

vehicle traffic. Large government owned land parcels 

or large singularly owned land parcels have also been 

prioritised for their ability to accommodate significant 

levels of development, which is likely to catalyse the 

future development of more constrained land parcels. 

The focus upon strengthening and building upon the 

existing retail environment has resulted in the lower 

prioritisation of the release of land to the north of 

the City Centre. It is also considered that areas with 

a large number of different landowners could develop 

their respective land parcels when suitable economic 

conditions prevail. 

The following tables correspond to Figures 81 – 83 and 

provide the detail of staging of works within City Centre.

CONNECTION 

Action / Activity / Project Details of staged development Timeframe for Delivery (Years) 

1. Sharpe Avenue reinforced as city main street with direct 

link to Dampier Road (after retirement village relocated). 


city access. 


Centro Shopping Centre and linked to Searipple Road. 




activity nodes. 

1(a) Welcome Road to Warambie 

Road 

1(b) Dampier Road to Welcome 

Road 

Land assembly 

Design/ Construct 

5. Morse Court relocated, if possible, to create a direct link 

street across city running behind Lotteries House. 

6. Sharpe Avenue connection to City-north Boulevard. Pedestrian Infrastructure 

Design/ Construct Road 

7. Welcome Road realigned to connect directly to Balmoral 

Road. 


Pegs Creek. 

9. Balmoral Road calmed as urban boulevard with off peak 

parking and realigned at Dampier Road, to improve 

traffic management. 







Crane Circle. 



15. Bus, caravan and large vehicle layover areas on DeGrey 




Table 22: Staging- Connection 

Land assembly/ Rationalisation 

Design/ Construct 

Stage 1 – Hillview Road – 

Searipple Road 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16-20 21+ 

6.0 

121

122 

6.0 

BUILT FORM 


1. High quality three and four storey development 

consisting mostly of commercial uses with a 

strong street presence but a well shaded and 

dynamic facades. 

2. Consolidated retail areas with large floor plate 

retail outlets behind street fronted development. 

3. Enhanced Sharpe Avenue and new ‘Karratha 

Terrace’ main streets with overhead shading 

screens, tree planting and urban furniture 

4. New Public/ Private multi level public car 

park stations to serve city uses with retail and 

commercial uses on the ground floor and to upper 

floor to street frontages. 

5. Semi enclosed, semi private retail lanes through to 

the existing Centro Shopping Centre. 

6. Planned Warambie Road apartments with 

landmark residential towers on a low rise street 

fronted base. 

7. Medium density street-fronted residential 

development replacing short term key workers 

villas. 


workers development on public plazas with 

landscape views. 

9. Urbanised (mixed use) large format retail and fast 

food development with 2 storey appearance and 

managed use of signage. 

10. Mixed-use street fronted buildings with balconies 

and terrace and rear lot parking. 

11. Affordable and key worker low rise apartment 


12. Church sites with infill development set back from 

church. 

13. Coordinated redevelopment of aging Department 

of Housing and Rio Tinto housing into modern 

group housing villas and multiple dwellings. 




Table 23: Staging- Built Form 

Town Heart and key gateways 

Other areas and new lands 

Vacant sites 

Redevelopment sites 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16-20 21+

PUBLIC REALM 


1. Karratha Green Link: Linear recreation and 

circulation link through City. 

2. City Park – Urbanised native planted park with 

water features, running creek and cool-off ponds 

play space and small events facilities. 

3. Memorial gardens enhanced expanded with 

building forecourt converted to a public plaza. 

4. Grand Square – A large public square under a 

grove of palms with an edge of canopy trees. 

Square will accommodate a kids water play area 

and night and weekend markets. 

5. The Quarter – A tight urban intersection 

surrounded by cinemas, cafes, youth hostels and 

apartments creating the nightlife focus of the City. 

A smaller civic square is located to the north of 

this area. 

6. Klenk Plaza at end of Klenk Street as an urban 

space with Karratha City landmark feature. 

7. Upgraded school grounds to provide an eastern 

side of the City greenspace and civic domain-style 

park and improved study sports areas. 

8. Landscape upgrade to drainage area possibly 

integrating a community farm gardens. 

9. Drainage area upgrades as a native creek with 

temporary billabongs and small lawn areas. 

10. Nickol Bay Park or Beach – A significant landscape 

and recreational feature, which may include an 

arid park or landscape feature or possibly a semi 

permanent billabong. 

11. Jetty over marshes or water or spring tided filled 

ponds, to a lookout tower. May also include a link 

to golf course estate. 

12. Landscape sanctuary at base of Karratha Hills 

with start to Jaburara Heritage Trail. 

13. Intensified Karratha Hills protection zone. 

Table 24: Staging- Public Realm 

1(a) West of Sharpe Avenue 

1(b) Sharpe avenue to Dampier 

Road 

1(c) East West Transit Link to 

Crane Circle Extension 

1(d) Crane Circle Extension to 

Esplanade 


Completions of POS/ Green 

space 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16-20 21+ 

6.0 

123

124 

6.0 

Figure 81: Proposed short term (0-5 Years) development actions. 

4 

11 

5 

1a 

7 

4 

4 

6 

3 

1a 

12 

3 

5 

6 

1a 

3 

3 

4 

1b 

1 1 

5 

5 

2 

6 

3 

11 

7 

16 

2 

13 

5 

4 

1b 

4 

2 

3 

3 

2 

15 

13 

12 

8 

11 

11

Figure 82: Proposed medium term (6-10 Years) development actions. 

9 

10 

8 

8 

9 

8 

12 

10 

10 

9 

1c 

10 

8 

8 

4 

12 

4 

8 

13 

4 

5 

4 

3 

10 

4 

6 

3 

1 

10 

1 

7 

10 

1 

1 

8 

8 

 

6.0 

 

 

 

125

126 

6.0 

Figure 83: Proposed long term(11-20+ Years) development actions. 

14 

11 

11 

14 

14 

14 

8 

9 

13 

1d 

8 

14 

10 

7 

11 

8 

7 

14 

14 

14 

14

6.8 GOVERNANCE 


Regional Governance Pilbara Establish Office of the Pilbara (New State Govt agency) Premier and Cabinet Sub 

Committee 

Establish Pilbara Partnerships Board as the peak body for implementation of 

the Pilbara cities vision 

Premier and Cabinet, 

Office of the Pilbara, 

CMI, CCI and other 

industry representation 

Local Governance SoR Establish a unit within SoR to promote local economic development SoR Yr 3-4 

Table 25: Governance 

Identify capability and skills requirements and recruit economic development 

director 

Short 

(0-5yr) 

Yr 2-3 

Yr 2-3 

SoR Yr 3-4 

Cost 

($m) 

Medium 

(6-10 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

Long 

(11-20 yr) 

Cost 

($m) 

6.0 

127

128 

6.0



VOLUME 3 - PART 7.0

130 
























APPENDIX A - CONSULTATION 

STAKEHOLDERS 

The following diagram provides an overview of the key 

stakeholders: 

Business 

Traders 

Non-Government 

Organisations 

Figure 84: Key Stakeholders 

Workers 

Leisure and 

Recreation 

Providers 

Health 

Service 

Providers 

Education 

Providers 

(eg schools, 

further education) 

Local Media 

Local 

Police 

Shire of 


Karratha 

Government 

Agencies 

state and federal 

Townsite 

Landowners 

Utilities 

Providers 

(eg WaterCorp, 

Alinta Gas) 

Resource 

Companies 

Chamber of 

Commerce and 

Industry 

Indigenous 

Community 

Landcorp 

Resource 

Contractors 

Local Community 

(eg sporting clubs, 

community groups, 

churches) 

7.0 

131

132 

7.0 

DEVELOPMENT SCENARIOS 

Scenario development for the spatial response to this 

project played a leading role in developing the City 

Centre Master Plan. By exploring a range of growth 

pathways the process was able to test a number of 

opportunities in terms of the role of the City Centre 

and its capacity to accommodate significant growth in a 

form that was place based and responsive to its context 

and climatic conditions. 

A full analysis of how the town centre functions was 

carried out to inform the process of what key issues the 

city centre is facing. These issues were assessed against 

a number of well-understood city centre planning and 

urban design principles. Coupled with a range of 

non-spatial inputs such as economic and community 

activation drivers, designs were developed as a method 

to test scenarios. 

Three (3) scenarios were initially proposed for the City 

Centre that would ultimately service a population of 50 

000 people. It was acknowledged that the Karratha City 

Centre provides a broader commercial, retail and service 

role for a number of adjoining towns, particularly for 

those within the Shire of Roebourne. 

In summary the three City Centre development scenarios 

that were tested were: 

SCENARIO 1 

Key Elements 

Building upon past planning worked conducted as 

part of the Karratha 2020 project, which included 

a focus on the redevelopment of Sharpe Avenue as 

the principal main street. It was expected this would 

be largely facilitated with a further expansion of the 

Centro Shopping Centre; 

This scenario was then enhanced by examining how 

and where the City could accommodate further 

commercial, retail and other growth that would in 

turn service a population of 50 000 people; 

It was also acknowledged that two additional 

commercial/retail centres (Tambrey, Mulataga) 

would also be planned for, which would provide a 

complementary role to the City Centre; 

Also included was the notion of growth occurring 

north of Warambie Road. However largely the 

structure/street network of the City Centre remained; 

Some minor changes to the street network include 

linking Karratha Road to Welcome Road east side 

of the Shire Administration Building and extending 

Sharpe Avenue through to Dampier Road to improve 

legibility; and 

Includes east west links from Pegs Creek and 

Bulgarra into the town centre. 

SCENARIO 2 

Key Elements 

In addition to the key elements within Scenario 

1, this scenario included design approaches that 

indicated how the Centro Shopping Centre could 

expand and how the street block could be reduced in 

size to improve circulation. 

Provision of more street based retail along new 

streets, consolidation of parking and expansion of 

retail by improving and activating the public realm. 

SCENARIO 3 

Key Elements 

Building upon the key elements in the above 

scenarios by improving the street structure of the 

City Centre to encourage a dispersed and more 

logical movement system; 

New link road between Balmoral and Searipple 

Road and including a new grid street system for the 

expansion of the city to the north of Warambie; 

Reduction of street block sizes; 

An extension of Sharpe Avenue that followed the 

existing creek/drainage line and picked up on natural 

elements of the natural environment linked to 

Dampier Road; and 

Resolving some minor street connections to improve 

street legibility.

12 

30 

Figure 85: Scenario 1 


7 

10 

7 

6 

26 

8 

10 

11 27 

12 

6 

8 

11 

27 

12 

19 

6 

25 

13 

9 

28 

9 

33 

30 

24 

24 

30 

5 

30 

14 

1 

2 

3 

25 

23 

23 

20 

4 

14 

5 

19 

21 

14 

13 

19 

5 

21 

1 20 

21 

4 

19 

14 

28 

31 

1 

31 

22 

2 

14 

13 

34 

11 

10 

23 

5 

19 

3 

22 

32 

29 

31 

12 

26 

15 

18 

10 

31 

32 

19 

17 

18 

16 

29 

17 

15 

12 

16 

1 Sharpe as central main street 

2 Public Plaza 

3 Link to Dampier Road 

4 New Plaza with water playground 

5 Traffic calm Warambie 

6 New development cell 

7 Upgraded reserve 

8 New frontage Road on Public Open Space 

9 Relocate drainage on verge and sell with 

guidelines 

10 New road 

11 Landscape upgrade 

12 New medium density 

13 New road network 

14 New sleeve development 

15 Extension of Karratha Road 

16 Government Office Upgrade 

17 Retained well 

18 Retained Petrol Station 

19 Upgrade and include water features 

20 Relocate pool 

21 New supermarket 

22 Link – pedestrian 

23 Service Workers housing (Landbank) 

24 New bypass Road 

25 No new expansion 

26 New link along drainage 

27 Bus/Street link 

28 New road (relocate Lotteries House) 

29 Intersection not resolved 

30 New Residential/ Mixed Use Zones 

31 Retain at grade parking 

32 Civic Zone with Skate Park 




4 New Plaza with water playground 



7 Upgraded reserve 

8 New frontage Road on Public Open Sp 

9 Relocate drainage on verge and sell w 

guidelines 

10 New road 


12 Infill medium density 






18 New Main Street 


20 Relocate pool 

21 New development 




25 New expansion area 

26 New link street 



29 Intersection resolved 


31 Parking deck 


33 Closed road expanded Hotel 

34 Cultural Park 

12 


6 

8 

6 

11 

27 

33 

6 

13 

30 

24 

5 

21 

1 4 

21 

4 

19 

14 

28 31 

2 

31 

1 

2 

22 

14 

9 

25 

23 

13 

3 

25 

10 

11 

23 

5 

19 

10 

12 

31 

34 

18 

20 

32 

29 

17 

15 

7 

12 

16 

7.0 




4 Water playground enhanced 



7 Upgraded school reserve 

8 New frontage Road on Public Open S 

9 Relocate drainage on verge and sell w 

guidelines 

10 New road 


12 New Infill medium density 






18 New Main Street 


20 New retail development 

21 New development 




25 New expansion area 

26 New link street 



29 Intersection resolved 


31 Parking deck 


33 Expanded Hotel 

34 Cultural Park 

133

134 

7.0 

CONSULTATION SUMMARY OF FINDINGS 

The following information provides a summary of 

feedback specific to the City Centre planning. Details 

related to the City Growth Planning are provided in that 

section of the plan. 

STAKEHOLDER FORUMS AND MEETINGS FEEDBACK 

Initial consultation revealed that the City Centre plans 

needs to: 

Make spaces for all demographics, including spaces 

the Indigenous community would like to use. 

Consider current land and market economics in the 

Pilbara to be successful. 

Be accessible by all transport modes – walking, 

cycling, driving, public transport – including parking 

Consider requirements for shade, seating, outdoor 

informal meeting spaces 

Make the town centre a more engaging and 

attractive place 

Residents like the idea of: 

Town/civic square concept 

Mix of mall and street shopping 

Residential opportunities in town centre 

Providing youth facilities in town centre 

More tourist accommodation 

Enhanced ecological/recreational corridors 

Sharpe street as main street is excellent 

Having two main avenues is a great concept 

Amenity – shade, greenery, water features 

Transport and connectivity – multi-storey car park, 

bus connections 

Concerns 

Plans are unrealistic and therefore will not be 

implemented – can it be funded? 

Cultural change for residents 

Insurances costs given Karratha is a high cyclone 

risk area 

High reliance on the main street concept working. 

What people like about the existing town centre: 

Accessibility - easy to access, central location, Not 

overcrowded 

Public domain/built form – varying architecture, 

ocean views, development is in context with Karratha 

e.g. no neon signs, shire gardens, creek through 

town, flat 

Uses – shopping (air conditioned, compact, late night 

trading, range of shops), aquatic centre, new 

police station. 

Why people access the existing town centre: 

Commercial facilities: medical, shops, bank, 

hairdresser, restaurants, etc. 

Community facilities/services – library, theatre, 

entertainment, church, police 

Entertainment/sporting facilities – movies, pool, 

electronic games 

Social reasons – meet up with friends/family, 

hang out 

Employment 

School 

Why people do not access the town centre: 

Not enough seating, shade. 

No youth spaces/activities 

Inadequate shopping facilities/variety 

Distance/access into town centre 

ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO CONSIDER FOR FUTURE CITY 

CENTRE DESIGN 

Issues: 

Health and medical facilities need improving/ 

increasing - provision of specialists. 

Accessibility into and within the town centre 

Not pedestrian and cycle friendly 

Poor traffic management 

Difficult to navigate 

Lack of public transport 

Poor disabled access. 

Public domain/built form 

Lack of signage, shade, public toilets, greenery 

No visual attractions/art 

No parks, playgrounds, meeting spaces, informal 

lunch areas. 

No ‘identity’ – no cultural feel, no Pilbara identity. 

Opportunities: 

Activation of the town centre is critical – need to 

provide more than the physical infrastructure, build a 

sense of place 

Develop a governance model for the town centre. 

Public art – cultural (Indigenous), town history, 

heritage trail, sun/wind power sculpture 

Involve the community in this process, including 

development of an entry statement 

Consolidation will attract further investment, but it 

must also be workable for the lower range population 

targets. 

Features to include in town centre: 

Shaded areas, seating, water fountains, 

nice landscaping 

More sport, recreation, shopping and 

entertainment options 

More eating outlets – restaurants, cafes, fast food. 

Adequate car parking – for all vehicles 

including caravans. 

Public transport access and stopping points 

Create a sense of arrival in the town centre 

Showcase use of renewable energy – e.g. use of solar 

power in all new buildings.

SURVEY FEEDBACK 

Feedback on from surveys on the Final Draft Plans 

indicated that the majority of respondents strongly 

support the proposed townsite design (65%) and 

a further 24% slightly support the design. Of the 

remaining 12%, there were 6% slightly opposed and 6% 

who were neither supportive nor opposed to the designs. 

Highest levels of satisfaction in the design were evident 

in the following areas: 

Improved connection and pedestrian movement (95% 

rated it as good or extremely good); 

A streetscape that looks good and provides adequate 

shade and comfort for walking and cycling (95% 

rated it as good or extremely good); and 

Promotes community interaction, identity and sense 

of place (95% rated it as good or extremely good). 

Respondents indicated the following positive aspects 

about the town centre design. 

Aesthetics 

− Green, shaded, friendly look 

− Creating a much cooler, inviting environment 

Overall design 

− More community friendly 

− Multi usable, not just a shop 

− It makes you realise the opportunities 

− Compact mixed-use 

− It provides a real centre for Karratha 

− Strong purpose 

− Making use of hills. Waterfront. Not much to do 

in Karratha. Bring the families to town 

− Utilise land in a more efficient way 

− Good for youth who need centres for recreation 

− Main street focus 

− Any improvement would be good 

Feedback on the final draft designs elicited the 

following concerns/issues: 

Elements of the road layout 

Density, in particular - too many multi-storey 

buildings 

Moving the pool site 

Car parking provision 

Need more detail on sustainable design / practices 

Respondents suggested the following activities; 

services or events would attract them to the city centre. 

Facilities: 

− Coffee shops, cafes, restaurants 

− An aquatic centre 

− Cinemas 

− Ten Pin Bowling 

− Cultural centre and place to relax with friends 

− Somewhere for youth to gather 

− Children’s play areas 

− Amphitheatre 

Events and activities: 

− Community events, individual entertainers 

− Music, cultural folk dance, outdoor gallery 

− Markets, street entertainment 

Atmosphere: 

− Cultural aspects, places to sit, chat, stroll enjoy 

in shade and surrounded by green and diverse 

building selection 

− Cool, shade, diverse retail, entertainment 

− Child friendly social environment 

− Atmosphere 

Respondents indicated the following aspects of the 

town centre design they would you like to see changed. 

Need a landmark 

Make sure the seniors are not pushed out 

Keep the pool 

The size of town centre 

Car parking 

The most common responses on what the first key 

projects that should occur were (in order of frequency) 

Sharpe Avenue upgrade 

Bus link 

Some green, shade 

7.0 

135

136 

7.0 

SUMMARY OF SUBMISSIONS 

Date Recieved Name/ Address/ 

Interest 

Summary of Comments Consultant/Team Response 

1. 10 March 2010 Huw Grossmith The submission refers to the City Centre Masterplan, and enquires whether the existing pool 

will be replaced or relocated. 

2. 14 March 2010 Terry Leo 

Town Centre Landowner 

3. 19 March Angus Murray 

Lot 1090 Karratha Road 

Surprised the town centre is not moving toward Dampier with the new suburban growth. 

The submission refers to the City Centre Masterplan and supports pushing Sharpe Avenue 

through from Dampier Road as a priority, which will ease traffic congestion on Warambie 

Road. 

To ease traffic further, part of Sharpe Avenue could be made one way and a northern 

bypass road developed. 

The submission refers to the Institutional Use area shown on the City Growth Plan, and 

requests that short stay/temporary accommodation be allowed within this area. 

Short stay/temporary accommodation should also be allowed within the Institutional 

Use area affected by the power station buffer, subject to compliance with statutory 

requirements. 

Retention of pool is not discouraged in the City Centre Masterplan, however retention will depend on 

the feasibility of Shire servicing a second pool (subsequent to a new one being constructed at the 

new Karratha Entertainment, Leisure and Training Centre on Dampier Road), and/or the feasibility 

of retaining it is part of redevelopment of the site. 

In light of east and west growth of Karratha (particularly higher densities proposed in Mulataga), it 

is appropriate to retain city centre in current location. 

Construction of the northern by-pass and extension of Sharpe Avenue through to the northern bypass 

and Dampier Road is proposed in the City Centre Master Plan. 

The intention is to retain two-way vehicle movement on Sharpe Avenue to maintain a streetscape 

amenable to pedestrians. 

Other comments noted. 

The City Growth Plan acknowledges the site is affected by a power station buffer, and so identifies 

‘Institutional’ as the preferred use. It also acknowledges the need to protect the power station from 

urban expansion. 

Development proposed within the buffer will be subject to normal environmental approvals. 

4. 18 April 2010 Peter Long 1. The submission generally supports the initiative but highlights the need for Karratha to retain 1. Noted and agreed. 

unique qualities 

2. Agreed. 

Further comments include: 

3. Agreed and project seek championing of a Pilbara building vernacular. 

2. The town needs to be attractive. 

4. Agreed and are proposed as part of the Implementation Plan. 

3. The town should have a sense of the Pilbara. 

5. Agreed and considered as part of the Implementation Plan. 

4. More facilities are required. 

6. A diversity of lot sizes must be provided. Continually developing larger lots is unsustainable due to 

5. Housing must be affordable. 

the limited availability of land that is affordable to develop and the high cost of infrastructure provision. 

6. Suburbs should consist of larger lots. 

They may also not meet the needs of many existing and future Karratha residents. The provision of 

smaller lots and higher density dwellings will help enable a compact and more affordable city to be 

7. Community opinion is that low rise buildings – no more than four storeys – are appropriate. achieved, and facilitate dwellings on larger lots being freed up by people who would prefer different 

8. Buildings and roads should be kept away from natural features (the Karratha Hills and coast 

housing arrangements. 

line). 

7. A mix of building heights is required to accommodate the target population and commercial 

9. Park in the centre of town is supported. 

floorspace. Buildings taller than four storeys would only be supported in iconic locations. 

10. Town square for functions should be provided. 

8. It is recognised that the Karratha Hills and coastline present a valuable natural landscape feature 

and contribute to ‘sense of place’. Development in proximity to these features is encouraged to be 

11. Supports use of native and introduced vegetation. Wise choice of species is important. complementary to ensure they do not detract from visual amenity. 

12. Areas of native scenery throughout town should be retained. 

9. Noted. 

13. Supports Sharpe Avenue as main street. 

10. Agreed and provided for in the Implementation Plan. 

14. Disagrees with relocating retirement village. 

11. Noted. 

15. Doesn’t support multiple-level car-parks 

12. Agreed and accommodated in the Implementation Plan. 

16. Supports open plazas, shady streets and covered walkways. 

13. Noted. 

Table 26: Summary of Submissions

Date Recieved Name/ Address/ Interest Summary of Comments Consultant/Team Response 

4. 18 April 2010 Peter Long 17. Supports east–west city by-pass to the north of the city centre. 

18. Believe the pool in the town centre should be retained in same location. 

19. Entertainment precinct should be just north of the square and gardens. 

20. Supports a civic project in the form of a town hall. 

21. Advocates removing round-abouts on Dampier Road. 

22. Does not support development on the coastline. Should not be for any use other 

than recreation. 

23. Golf course should stay where it is. 

24. High density housing should be kept to two or three storeys. 

25. Objects to building on the Karratha Hills. 

26. Make feature of creek-lines. 

27. Catholic rectory should not be moved. 

28. Plan should protect native ecosystems. 

29. The submission also notes sand mining is a problem with dunes and vegetation 

being destroyed. 

30. Weeds are increasing in number and species. 

31. Storm drains should be used for recreation. 

32. Supports climate responsive building design. 

33. Supports Karratha becoming a solar city. 

Table 26: Summary of Submissions (Continued) 

7.0 

14. Extension of Sharpe Avenue to Dampier Road is an important structural change that will facilitate 

growth of the city centre and provide a clear entry point to the town centre which is currently lacking. 

Relocation of the retirement village will require consultation with the operators and residents prior to any 

action being undertaken. 

15. Multi-level carparks are essential to free up land for new retail and commercial floorspace, and 

accommodate additional vehicles. Car parks will be sleeved by development so that streetscape amenity 

is retained. 

16. Noted. 

17. Noted. 

18. Retention of pool is not discouraged in the City Centre Masterplan, however retention will depend on 

the feasibility of Shire servicing a second pool (subsequent to a new one being constructed at the new 

Karratha Entertainment, Leisure and Training Centre on Dampier Road), and/or the feasibility of retaining 

it is part of redevelopment of the site. 

19. The city square abuts the entertainment precinct to the south. 

20. Noted and agreed. 

21. Traffic lights will replace round-a-bouts in selected locations. 

22. Selected nodes of coastal development are considered to enhance Karratha’s liveability and 

strengthen its links with the water – a key attraction of the area. 

23. The golf course redevelopment is a long term proposition and will include an enhanced golf course. 

24. It is not possible to achieve the dwelling numbers proposed with a limit of three storeys across the 

townsite. 

25. It is recognised that the Karratha Hills and coastline present a valuable natural landscape feature 

and contribute to ‘sense of place’. The housing is proposed to be limited in number and designed 

to complement to landscape. Construction of housing is subject to feasibility assessment, including 

assessment of the cultural concerns of the Traditional Owners. 

26. Agree and proposed as part of the Implementation Plan. 

27. Catholic Rectory is not proposed to be relocated. 

28. The Implementation Plan has been prepared using a sustainability framework in which the impacts on 

native eco-systems is to be minimised. 

29. Noted. 

30. Noted. 

31. Agreed with increased residential density and redevelopment it will become more viable for the Shire 

of Roebourne to improve drainage reserves for recreation purposes, and is encouraged to occur where 

possible under the Implementation Plan. 

32. Noted and addressed in Implementation Plan. 

33. Noted and agreed. The Implementation Plan proposes greater use of renewable energy. 

137

138 

7.0 


5. 19 April Michelle Crean The submission refers to a number of items in the City Growth Plan and City Centre 

Masterplan, and objects to: 


Housing on the base of the Karratha Hills as it will impact on visual amenity and 

reduce access. 

Loss of the arid lands garden. 

High rise car-park on the intersection of main streets, due to impact on visual 

amenity. 

High rise (greater than 4 storeys) in the town centre. 

Comment was also made on: 

Possible impact of traffic volume onto new main street. 

Encouragement of existing eating establishments to relocate to main street 

The loss of the cinema. 

Potential for design buildings fronting main street to accommodate alfresco dining. 

Potential for health and lifestyle precinct to accommodate volleyball and netball 

facilities. 

6. Sebastian Corvaia The submission refers to the City Centre Masterplan and submits that the extension 

of Sharpe Avenue would impact on the Catholic Cultural Centre and require 

relocation of the Free Mason’s retirement village, which would disrupt the residents. 

7. 12 April 2010 Mike Loly 

Rio Tinto 

Doesn’t believe the benefits of the new link outweigh the impacts. 

The submission supports the development of Karratha into a vibrant regional 

city with an aspirational population target of 50,000, which will be an important 

component in making the Pilbara an attractive place to live. 

Supports facilitation of additional land release for housing and commercial 

development and expansion of the local economy. 

Supports continued state investment into service delivery and community facilities. 

Acknowledges the linkages between the Karratha Revitalisation Project and planning 

and redevelopment initiatives being pursued in Wickham and Dampier. 

It is recognised that the Karratha Hills present a valuable natural landscape feature and contribute to 

‘sense of place’. The housing is proposed to be limited in number and designed to complement the 

landscape. Construction of housing is subject to feasibility assessment, including assessment of the 

cultural concerns of the Traditional Owners. 

Loss of the arid lands garden is not specifically proposed, however may be affected by new 

development. It may be possible to retain the arid lands garden or relocate to an alternate location. 

Highrise car-parks in prominent locations are proposed to be sleaved by development to minimise 

impact on visual amenity. 

It is proposed to transform Karratha into a modern city. It is essential to include nodes of higher 

density residential and commercial activity if the necessary floorspace and dwelling numbers are to 

be achieved. 

Traffic analysis indicates the main street could carry a volume of traffic acceptable to a pedestrian 

orientated environment. 

It is anticipated that the increased population will support a much wider range of entertainment 

opportunities for the Karratha community. 

Other comments are noted. 

No disruption is proposed to the Catholic Cultural Centre. 

Extension of Sharpe Avenue to Dampier Road is an important structural change that will facilitate 


Relocation of the retirement village will require consultation with the operators and residents prior to 

any action being undertaken. 

Comments are noted.


8. 23 April 2010 Steve Casey 

Parish Priest 

St Paul’s Parish 

9. 21 April 2010 Greg Rowe & Associates on 

behalf of Jugu Pty Ltd 

Landowner of Lot 3780 Sharpe 

Avenue 

The submission refers to the content of the City Centre Masterplan, and disagrees 

with the proposed relocation of the retirement village to enable extension of 

Sharpe Avenue to Dampier Road, however if the relocation does occur, the 

residents should be provided with appropriate housing of the same standard in a 

location close to the city centre and at no cost to them. 

Does not support transfer of any part of the parish land to other parties as it is 

required for deliver services offered by the parish. 

Submission notes the content of the City Centre Masterplan and associated 

precinct plan and states not objection to the property designation within an 

entertainment precinct with an ultimate preferred development scenario being one 

of mixed use. Notwithstanding this, the owner would object to being compelled to 

develop in this way. 

10. 20 April 2010 Vicki Long The Submission acknowledges that change is inevitable but objects to the plan on 

the following basis: 

The plan needs to respect the uniqueness of the Pilbara and a team of consultants 

from out of town cannot understand this 

The use of exotic species to line streets, where native species should be used. 

Buildings higher than 10 storeys do not respect the Karratha Hills and will detract 

from the sustainability and liveability. 

Relocation of the retirement village to extend to Sharpe Avenue. 

Bridge required to extend Sharpe Avenue will upset the quiet beauty of the creek 

line. 

Proposed buildings on the hills will destroy the nature and beauty currently 

enjoyed. 

Environmental conditions have not adequately been considered. 

The plan proposes to create a sub-set of any other big city taking away the town’s 

heritage. 

7.0 


growth of the city centre and provide a clear entry point to the town centre which is currently 

lacking. 

Relocation of the retirement village will require consultation with the operators and residents, and 

an appropriate course of action agreed to, before any action is undertaken. 

No disruption is proposed to the Catholic Cultural Centre. 

The implementation plan highlights that the redevelopmnent of this site could occur in the medium 

term (6-10 years). At this time there is no intention to require properties to redevelop and the 

decision to do so would be at the discretion of the land owner. However, it is anticipated that once 

short term improvements occur with extensive new development it will become the commercially 

viable option to redevelop the landholding. 

The plan was prepared by consultants with extensive input from local residents and stakeholders 

and it reflects much of what has been put forward by the community. It has also been shaped 

through the Shire of Roebourne Council. 

The landscape treatment throughout the town centre will be a combination of exotics and native 

species. Exotic species can add considerably to shade, and visual appeal of particular areas. 

Karratha already features many exotic trees which add to its 

exotic appeal. 

The plan advocates taller buildings in selected locations. These buildings can provide a built form 

that respects the scale of the Karratha Hills. Taller, thinner towers can have considerably less 

visual impact than shorter wider ones. These buildings also permit higher residential density which 

reduces the extent of expansion required to the townsite, which contributes to sustainable growth 

of the town. 

Relocation of the retirement village will require consultation with the operators and residents, and 

an appropriate course of action agreed to, before any action is undertaken. 

Bridging the creek line is essential if direct connection to Dampier Road is to occur. It is also 

proposed to substantially enhance the landscaping in this area. 

It is recognised that the Karratha Hills present a valuable natural landscape feature and contribute 

to ‘sense of place’. The housing is proposed to be limited in number and designed to complement 

to landscape. Construction of housing is subject to feasibility assessment, including assessment of 

the cultural concerns of the Traditional Owners. 

New developments will need to adequately address areas of environmental concern. A 

comprehensive sustainability framework was applied to this plan. 

It is hoped through championing a Pilbara vernacular Karratha can continue as a unique place that 

complements and enhances the town’s history. 

139

140 

7.0 


11. 20 April 2010 Glen Slee 

Ratepayer 


Submission provided in an email, and letter. 

Comments provided in the letter: 

1. The submission cites concept plans as difficult to read and the need for more 

detail to enable comment. 

2. Extension of Sharpe Avenue will require relocation of the retirement village and 

building a new bridge and round-about on Dampier Road will be a costly exercise. 

3. Questions whether creek line is proposed to be filled in. 

4. Urban and landscape design principles not articulated. 

5. The approach to supply and sustainable use of water power and provision of 

health services has not been articulated. 

6. Water-wise plantings are not being encouraged. 

7. Karratha’s uniqueness that is sought to be retained is not articulated. 

8. Building on the Karratha Hills would emulate elsewhere and be afforded to a 

limited few. 

9. The creeklines could be enhanced and used as open spaces. 

10. Emulation of other locations with housing on the beachfront. 

11. Consideration given to mangroves not identified. 

12. Concern raised that comments received during the consultation process 

13. Questions powers of State Government to change planning decisions of Council. 

14. Applauds Council and LandCorp for undertaking planning initiaves to enable 

Karratha to develop as a city 

15. Broad strategies for sustainability and unique Pilbara style are not articulated. 

16. Concerns at loss of Arid Lands Garden. 

17. Requested when the Implementation Plan will be available for comment. 

Plan will be available for comment. 

18. Questions the need to contain development north of the Karratha Hills. 

19. Concern raised at potential risk to development from storm surge. 

20. Concern raised at need for additional service workers to meet needs of 

expending population. 

More detailed comments were provided on the City Centre Masterplan: 

21. Is Sharpe Avenue to be renamed. 

22. What is a public plaza? 

Responses to comments provided in the letter: 

1. Noted. 

2. Extension of Sharpe Avenue to Dampier Road is an important structural change that will facilitate 


Relocation of the retirement village will require consultation with the operators and residents, and an 

appropriate course of action agreed to, before any action is undertaken. 

3. The creekline is proposed to be retained and enhanced as part of a green promenade through the 

city centre. 

4. The urban and landscape design principles are included in the Implementation Plan. 

5. The approach to the provision and use of water, power and health services is included in the 

Implementation Plan. In regard to the desaltination plant, provision is a necessity due to the need for 

potable water, the demand placed on the existing water supply by the resources sector and constraints 

to drawing additional water from the aquifer. The Water Corp is responsible for providing advice on the 

location of the proposed desalination plant. 

6. A water-wise approach to landscaping is encouraged, particularly through use of native plantings, 

however a mix of exotic plantings is also proposed in certain locations due to appropriateness for 

shade and visual amenity reasons. 

7. The Implementation Plan highlights unique landscape features and other characteristics that 

contribute to sense of place that have been taken into account as well as promoted in future 

development. 

8. It is recognised that the Karratha Hills present a valuable natural landscape feature and contribute 

to ‘sense of place’. The housing is proposed to be limited in number and designed to complement to 

landscape. Construction of housing is subject to feasibility assessment, including assessment of the 

cultural concerns of the Traditional Owners. 

9. Agreed and proposed in the Implementation Plan. 

10. Noted. 

11. Disturbance of mangroves is subject to environmental assessment/approval. 

12. Comments received will be provided to Council for consideration as part of the covering report to 

be submitted with the 

Implementation Plan. 

13. The Local Authority is responsible for determining planning applications. Aggrieved applicants may 

challenge planning decisions through the State Administrative Tribunal. 

14. Noted. 

15. Strategies for sustainability and unique Pilbara style are articulated in the Implementation Plan. 

16. Loss of the arid lands garden is not specifically proposed, however may be affected by new 

development. It may be possible to retain the arid lands garden or relocate to an alternate location. 

17. The initial iteration of the Implementation Plan will not be circulated for public comment as it will 

respond to the City Growth Plan and City Centre Masterplan released for comment. The Implementation 

Plan is intended to be used as an ongoing management tool, so once adopted by Council can be 

modified as required.



Ratepayer 


23. Opposed to extension of Sharpe Avenue. 

24. New plaza with water playground (4 on City Centre Masterplan). 

25. What does traffic calm Warambie mean? 

26. Is a mix of short term accommodation and street level commercial uses 

with residential above proposed. 

27. Is St Paul’s school being relocated? 

28. Queried location of new road over Hedland Place (8 on City Centre 

Masterplan). 

29. Landscape upgrade supported. 

30. Queried whether homes are to be demolished to allow for medium density in 

the long term. 

31. Advocates using existing road structures to allow east-west link. 

32. Opposed to extension of Karratha Road due to loss of arid lands garden. 

33. What is civic precinct – opposes relocation of the retirement village and 

filling in creek. 

34. Supports retention of heritage well. 

35. Does new main street require realignment of existing streets. 

36. Opposed to community park and possible skateboard facilities. 

37. Supports upgrading of the pool site. 

38. Detail expansion seems reasonable. 

39. Supports new bypass. 

40. Queries Hotel Residential zone (21 on 

City Centre Master Plan). 

41. Queries link promenade (22 on City 

Centre Masterplan). 

42. Queries what is meant by Landmark (24 on City Centre Masterplan). 

43. Queries what is sleeved multi-level parking. 

44. Queries civic square (27 on City Centre Masterplan) 

45. Queries whether residents of Hillview Apartments are aware of potential to 

expand the Karratha International. 

46. Queries land bridge and observatory (29 on City Centre Masterplan) 

47. Queries whether long term medium density proposed (10 on City Centre 

Masterplan) would result in overshadowing replacement. 

48. Queries whether proposal for new district centre (3 on City Wide Growth 

Plan) contradicts to reasons for not developing south of the hills. 

18. Containing Karratha north of the hills is informed by the need to minimise segregation of the 

community, high cost of servicing low density urban development, and limited availability of land not 

constrained to development. Earlier plans which proposed that Karratha develop south of the hills 

were long term in nature, and did not envisage the viability of higher density development that would 

allow a more compact town. 

19. The risk of storm surge is acknowledged and addressed in the Implementation Plan. 

20. The Implementation Plan highlights requirement for services to meet the needs of growing 

community. Service providers will be able to take into account the Implementation Plan assessing their 

workforce/operational requirements. 

21. Not considered as part of this project. 

22. Public space with pedestrian priority. 

23. Refer to point 2. above. 

24. Water play features are proposed in public spaces. 

25. Reduce traffic speeds on Warambie Road. 

26. Yes. 

27. No. 

28. Hedland Place is proposed to be realigned. 

29. Noted. 

30. Over the long term, it is proposed to increase density nearer to the city centre, which will allow 

owners the potential to redevelop their sites. 

31. Existing roads will be used where possible, however it is unlikely the link will be possible via 

existing roads alone. 

32. See point 16. above. 

33. The civic precinct will contain a number of community uses, such as government offices and the 

Catholic Church. See points 2 and 3 above regarding the retirement village and creek. 

34. Noted. 

35. Some realignment may be required. 

36. See point 3 above. 

37. Retention of pool is not discouraged in the City Centre Masterplan, however retention will depend 

on the feasibility of Shire servicing a second pool (subsequent to a new one being constructed at the 

new Karratha Entertainment, Leisure and Training Centre on Dampier Road), and/or the feasibility of 

retaining it is part of redevelopment of the site. 

38. Noted. 

39. Noted. 

40. This area is envisaged to accommodate hotel and residential development. 

41. This will provide passive road and footpath along the northern edge of the city centre. 

7.0 

141

142 

7.0 



Ratepayer 

12. 21 April 2010 Nicholas Green on behalf 

of Ngarluma Aboriginal 

Corporation 


49. Queries the nature of the service centre (4 on City Wide Growth Plan). 

42. A notable landmark feature, such as public art, to be located in park. 

50. Difficult to envisage a lock and water beach (6 on City Wide Growth Plan) 43. Multi-level parking located behind other development, such as commercial. 

51. Queries new golf course (8 on City Wide Growth Plan) 

44. Existing park is proposed to be retained. 

52. Queries whether district play field would include additional ovals (9 on City 45. Public consultation was undertaken during the project. 

Wide Growth Plan). 

46. “Lookout” feature and pathway extending from Sharpe Avenue to coast. 

53. Queries ‘institutional’ area, as illustrated in the Karratha Hills West precinct. 

47. Over the long term, it is proposed to increase density nearer to the city centre, which will allow 

Comments provided in the email: 

owners the potential to redevelop their sites. Overshadowing would be controlled through normal 

1. Supports the need for change in Karratha. 

residential planning controls. 

2. Consultation brochure is difficult to read making it difficult to comment without 

further detail. 

48. This is a retail/commercial node to service the new growth area, which would form part of and 

link into the infrastructure of the existing town. 

3. Raises concerns at low lying areas having exposure to physical and economic 

49. Primarily large format retail, although open air display such as car yards is envisaged. 

loss. 

50. Noted. 

4. Need to move beyond ‘business as usual, to deliver the scale of change required. 51. This is envisaged to be a new, additional golf course. 

52. This may include play fields, however would require further detailed investigation as part of the 

structure planning process for the new growth area. 

53. ‘Institutional’ includes public service facilities, however residential may be permitted. 

The submission is generally supportive of the plans but provides the following 

comments: 

The implementation of the plan must involve significant involvement from 

Aboriginal people (both Traditional Owners as well as other groups living in the 

area). 

Acknowledges current engagement efforts and highlights the importance of 

aspiring to best practice in cultural heritage management. 

New developments must be designed in an inclusive and culturally appropriate 

manner. 

Taskforce should be established to oversee and guide the involvement of 

Aboriginal People and ensure that they are adequately resourced to do so. 

A forum with Aboriginal stakeholders should be held to establish what 

constitutes an appropriate level of aboriginal involvement. 

Views of Aboriginal Stakeholders should be seriously considered and acted 

upon. 

A qualified heritage practitioner should be engaged to provide advice on 

Cultural Heritage Management and Aboriginal stakeholder liaison. 

In implementing the plan, opportunities for Aboriginal businesses, Aboriginal 

design input and Aboriginal employment should be maximised. 

Responses to comments provided in the email: 

1. Noted. 

2. Noted. 

3. The risk of storm surge is acknowledged and addressed in the Implementation Plan. 

4. Agreed and new approach to governance proposed in the Implementation Plan. 

It is a key aim of the project to increase the level of engagement and improve outcomes for all 

Aboriginal people within the Shire. In this regards, all of the comments provided are noted. 

Consultation with Aboriginal people was undertaken during the preparation process, with 

stakeholders invited to attend a number of forums. Ongoing engagement is promoted in the 

Implementation Plan.


13. 12 April 2010 Dianne Lockett 

Ratepayer, land owner and 

resident 

14. 21 April 2010 Joanne Pritchard on behalf 

of Soroptimist International 

Karratha & Districts 

15. 21 April 2010 Whelans on behalf of Reefside 

Enterprises 


The submission is generally supportive of the plans but raises the following 

concerns: 

High-rise apartments, whether for residential or short term. Highlight recent 

decision by Council to support an 8 storey maximum. 

The ratio of residential of retail/commercial should be defined as 1 to 4 in the 

areas identified as ‘mixed business’ in the City Centre Masterplan, to reduce 

provision of 

retail commercial. 

Notes conflict between City Centre Masterplan, which proposes a Retail 

Precinct, Shire Town Planning Scheme Omnibus Amendment which proposes 

commercial, and the Finbar mixed use development proposal on the corner 

of Searipple and Warambie Roads. Eleven storey development on the site and 

placement of transient budget accommodation on adjacent lot is deleterious. 

Option of allowing accommodation in the Karratha Light Industrial area has 

been overlooked, and noted option for lifestyle lots. 

The submission highlights a number of concerns regarding the approach to 

sustainable use of water, energy, wastewater and building design. 

Supports community garden, however queries whether project partners will 

provide funding support for a full-time gardener. 

Queries approach to recycling. 

Interest in whole-of-life costs of development 

is expressed. 

The submission supports the principle of increasing densities in existing areas 

to facilitate redevelopment particularly of areas close to the city centre, and 

supports facilitation of multiple dwelling developments to provide greater 

housing choice and 

improve affordability. 

Supports re-coding Bulgarra to R50 or higher. 

16. 22 April 2010 Ray Ward The respondent is impressed with the project and hopes it goes well for the 

Council. 

Need to build a sea wall along the cost to protect from tidal surges. 

Need to protect Aboriginal carvings in the Karratha Hills. 

No Shire caravan park is provided on the plan. 

No area set aside for a fully contained cyclone shelter for 1000 people. 

7.0 


that respects the scale of the Karratha Hills. Taller, thinner towers can have considerably less 

visual impact than shorter wider ones. These buildings also permit higher residential density 

which reduces the extent of expansion required to the townsite, which contributes to sustainable 

growth of the town. 

The City Centre Masterplan has taken into account the potential requirement for retail and 

commercial floorspace for a population of 50,000. There is also considerable potential to 

accommodate higher density residential accommodation in the town centre to maximise the 

benefit of proximity to these services, add vibrancy to the city centre, and reduce the extent of 

expansion required to the townsite. 

The City Growth Plan proposes allowing accommodation in identified light industrial areas, and 

potential for larger lifestyle lots in the area marked ‘Rural’. 

Other comments noted. 

The revitalisation has been prepared using a sustainability framework in which the minimisation 

of the use/reuse of resources has been a key objective. The Implementation Plan provides detail 

on the approach to addressing water and power supply and promotion of other environmentally 

sustainable initiatives. 

Support for the community garden is noted; however consideration of funding proposals is 

outside of the scope of this project. 

The recommended approach to waste and landfill management is set out in the Implementation 

Blueprint. 

Noted. Many sites in Karratha contain buildings which are in poor condition, are close to their 

“used-by” date or constraining “highest and best” use. Many of these buildings also contribute to 

a sense of decline. Redevelopment of these sites provides an opportunity to revitalise Karratha, 

which can contribute a range of benefits, such as improved energy efficiency. 

It is agreed that higher densities close to the town centre should be supported. 

Noted. 

The risk of storm surge is acknowledged and addressed in the Implementation Plan. 

It is recognised that the Karratha Hills present a valuable natural landscape feature and contribute 

to ‘sense of place’. The housing is proposed to be limited in number and designed to complement 

to landscape. Construction of housing is subject to feasibility assessment, including assessment 

of the cultural concerns of the 

Traditional Owners. 

Expansion to the Shire caravan park is promoted in the Implementation Plan. 

Opportunities for emergency shelters are identified in the Implementation Plan. 

143

144 

7.0 


17. 20 April 20010 J Renault on behalf of Pilbara 

Protection Committee 


States that the plans are generally quite good however raises concerns. 

Need to build a sea wall along the cost to protect from tidal surges. 

Acknowledges rebuilding Karratha on the southside of Karratha Hills is not 

financially feasible. 

Visitor centre should be moved to intersection of Karratha Road and North West 

Coastal Highway and direct people into the town, together with a new caravan 

park and petrol station adjacent. 

Karratha Road should be made into a tree lined boulevard. 

Queries how multi-level car park would be made visually acceptable. 

Queries approach to relocation of the retirement village as a result of the 

extension of Sharpe Avenue. 

Queries whether Telstra tower will be relocated. 

Supports a maximum building height of 4 stories, and queries impact on high rise 

builds from cycles or explosion of Pluto gas plant on the Burrup. 

Noted. 

The risk of storm surge is acknowledged and addressed in the Implementation Plan. 

Noted. 

Entry statements are proposed at major intersections to direct people into the town. It is noted that 

further opportunities for tourist accommodation should be explored. 

This is supported and proposed in the Implementation Plan. 

Highrise car-parks in prominent locations are proposed to be sleaved by development to minimise 

impact on visual amenity. 



Relocation of the retirement village will require consultation with the operators and residents prior to 

any action being undertaken. 


that respects the scale of the Karratha Hills. Taller, thinner towers can have considerably less visual 

impact than shorter wider ones. These buildings also permit higher residential density, which reduces 

the extent of expansion required to the townsite, which contributes to sustainable growth of the 

town. Development would be subject to building approvals, and required to address cyclone ratings.

APPENDIX B - PILBARA PLAN 

Land 

Fast tracking land release of land for residential and 

non-residential activities; 

Develop long term strategic land release plan and 

land bank programs; and 

Implement a program to rationalise and revitalise 

town centres through infill mixed-use development. 

Policy 

Review regulations that are a disincentive to resource 

sector staff housing provision. 

Accommodation 

Facilitate the provision of a range of affordable 

housing options for non-mining essential workers, 

service professionals, education students, and 

senior’s accommodation. 

Health 

Rescue package for the Nickol Bay Hospital to 

facilitate increased services and facilities including 

the establishment of a Karratha Super clinic with GP 

services; and 

Improvements to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. 

Education 

Increased apprenticeship training places; 

The establishment of a Pilbara Mining Academy; and 

General expansion and upgrade of facilities. 

Social 

Provision of quality childcare places (including 

staff quarters). 

Sport & Recreation 

The provision of a leisure and learning precinct 

Environment 

A coastal mapping exercise to identify areas 

vulnerable to global warming and climate 

change; and 

Research and development (including facilitating 

demonstration projects) into more climate responsive 

building forms suitable to Pilbara conditions for 

residential and non–residential development. 

Utilities 

Upgrading and securing essential urban 

infrastructure services to support future urban and 

industry expansion. 

Communication 

Improve telecommunication coverage in the region. 

7.0 

145

146 

7.0 

APPENDIX C - KARRATHA 2020 VISION AND 

COMMUNITY PLAN (2009) 

Thematic Need Comment Example Initiatives 

Business, Entrepreneurialism 

and Economic Development 

Infrastructure Investment 

and Transport 

Table 27: Karratha 2020 Vision and Community Plan (2009) 

Existing economic bottlenecks, escalated housing costs, ongoing labour shortages and limited retail/ 

commercial space have decreased economic diversity and stifled the capacity for new business to open. 

Much of the existing infrastructure is in need of an upgrade/expansion and additional investments will be 

required to meet the demands of a growing population and rising expectations. 

Leadership and Capacity The future development of Karratha will necessitate strong leadership, partnerships and expanded 

organisational capacity to manage the challenges this growth brings. Significant decisions affecting the 

town are made by parties based outside the town. There is limited community ownership or say in major 

decisions. 

Liveability and Lifestyle Preserving and enhancing Karratha’s liveability and lifestyle choices is essential to retaining and attracting 

a stable workforce and a balanced and effective community. 

Expand the labour pool by increasing demographic diversity (e.g. skate plaza, aged care). 

Provision of affordable non-mining related housing and commercial/retail spaces. 

Town centre enhancement. 

Visitor centre upgrade. 

Increased public transport provision. 

Underground power. 

Waste water effluent system. 

Improved broadband and wireless services. 

Improved road network including intra estate linkages. 

Skills development (TAFE, High School etc) 

Expanded Shire resources. 

Creation of activity hubs/meeting places for the exchange of ideas (town centre, super clinic, arts centre). 

Volunteer resource support Club development programmes. 

Strong clear vision and policy for community development. 

Park and drainage improvements. 

Additional retail opportunities. 

Main street development. 

Improved recreation amenities. 

Childcare and family services. 

Natural Capital Preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage has a range of social (and economic) benefits. Arts centre/gallery. 

Drainage upgrades/revegetation. 

Museum. 

Tourism accommodation. 

Community Health and A perceived decline in quality of life associated with the boom (e.g. declining services due to labour/ Youth facilities and services. 

Wellbeing 

housing shortages) has the potential to erode sense of community and increase staff turnover 

Family Centres. 

Events and festivals. 

Aged care facilities. 

Medical and allied health services.

APPENDIX D - STRATEGIC PLAN 

(2009-2013) 

Communities 

Design and construct ‘entry statements’ for 

each town. 

Increase the attractiveness of the streetscape 

amenity and foster pride in maintaining a higher 

standard of the upkeep of homes, businesses and 

public space throughout the Shire. 

Progressively implement and review the key priorities 

of the Karratha 2020 Plan. 

Implement the first phase of the Karratha Town 

Revitalisation Project. 

Ensure the Karratha Town Centre Plan is adopted and 

progressively implemented by private enterprise and 

public agencies. 

Provide development ready site(s), in conjunction 

with LandCorp and other agencies to enable the 

development of a lifestyle village(s) or other forms of 

housing suitable for, retirees. 

Enhance the sense of community by coordinating a 

range of community events and activities. 

Develop youth programs and a plan to improve youth 

program and service delivery. 

Local Economy 

Establish formal relationships with industry partners 

to maximise community benefit. 

Build effective working relationships with land 

developers, builders and non-government agencies 

for available land to construct more affordable 

housing. 

Explore the options for the creation of an economic 

development model for the Shire. 

Resolve and develop a strategic direction within 

the framework of the Shire of Roebourne Coastal 

Strategy for nature based camping and eco-based 

tourism. 

Plan and facilitate the development of more 

affordable accommodation by working with the 

Federal and State Governments and private 

enterprise. 

Plan and facilitate the development of medium and 

higher density accommodation, including serviced 

apartments with on-site recreation facilities. 

7.0 

147

148 

7.0 

APPENDIX E - TRAFFIC 

Figure 88: Existing Pedestrian and cyclist town centre network map 

Figure 89: Karratha town centre daily traffic projects (Source: transcore)

149 

 

Figure 90: Karratha town centre daily traffic projects (Source: transcore) 

Figure 91: Friday parking occupancy map 

Figure 92: Saturday parking occupancy map 

7.0 

149

150 

7.0 

APPENDIX F - COMMUNITY ACTIVATION 

OBJECTIVES/PRINCIPLES/STRATEGIES & ACTIONS 

The following section provides the details of all strategies requirements related to the community development 

planning for the successful development and activation of the City Centre.City Centre Governance 

Concept Proposed Actions 

City Centre 

Management 

and Governance 

Structure 

Table 28: City Centre Governance 

Establish a City Centre Management Group involving Shire of Roebourne, local businesses, 

landowners, developers Karratha Chamber of Commerce and Industry and government agencies. 

This group is to manage the important aspects of the City Centre. 

Seek funding to appoint a City Centre Coordinator Role (Place Manager). Role is to foster a 

coordinated approach across all stakeholder groups to work towards the innovative development 

of the City Centre and take a proactive approach to City Centre management. 

Establish a City Centre Management Office – in the heart of the City Centre 

Business Support 


Business Location 

Planning 

Small Business 

Services 

City Centre Groups 

Development 

Cluster related businesses in same area. 

Process supported in development applications and land use planning. 

Karratha Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) to provide ongoing collegiate support for 

business and industry. 

Develop City Centre sub-committee of KCCI to focus on City Centre business development. 

Establish groups that can operate out of community facilities within the City Centre: 

tre Focp Development heritage that llinks from the hills to City Centre and coast to City Centre. 

Breakfast and coffee clubs for business people. 

Young professionals’ network. 

Establish City Centre traders club. 

Classes linked to small businesses – craft, wine appreciation, flower arranging, cookery etc. 

City Centre Facilities Community function centre to be made available for hire within City Centre. 

Small Business 

Incentives 

City Centre Business 

Marketing and 

Promotion 

Table 29: Business Support 

Special business displays in City Centre spaces – e.g. use of city square for business displays. 

Window display competitions to attract browsers. 

Develop stimulus package to encourage small business to relocate to City Centre including 

investigation of favourable start up rents and development of shop top living to reduce staff 

accommodation costs. 

Develop incentive package to encourage small business to develop public realm (landscaping 

etc) in keeping with standard set for the City Centre. 

Develop specific promotional and marketing strategy for City Centre – including advertised 

details of Business services linked to community activities. Promotional strategies to include: 

Community Newsletter 

Media advertising 

Website

Access to Services 


Government Service 

Collocation Centre 

Non Government 

Agency Collocation 

Centre 

Access to Collocated 

Medical Facilities 

Table 30: Access to Services 

Safety and Security 


Safety and Security 

Processes 

City Centre Safety 

Infrastructure 

Table 31: Safety and Security 

Develop a Government Service Centre Precinct to collocated government agencies in one area, 

close to City Centre community/civic precinct for easy access for residents. 

Replace Lotteries House with a larger purpose built facility that provides affordable office and 

meeting spaces for non-government organisations. 

Provide access from City Centre via public transport to medical precinct that includes new 

hospital, consulting offices for allied health services and residential accommodation for 

regional people needing to access services located in Karratha. 

Collaboratively develop a City Centre safety strategy involving the City Centre Management 

Group, Police, Shire of Roebourne and business owners 

Develop a City Centre activation strategy (see other sections for activation initiatives). 

Develop a City Centre Behaviour Protocol with key stakeholders including youth, to establish 

expected standards of behaviour, benefits of positive behaviour and consequences of 

inappropriate behaviour. 

Designing out crime principles to be applied in the design and development of City Centre 

including: 

High density residential and shop top living in City Centre to ensure high levels of passive 

surveillance and activation of streets. 

Develop good site lines to all areas in the City Centre. 

High standard of street lighting and illumination of pedestrian and social meeting spaces. 

Develop dual use cycle and pedestrian pathways. 

Access to public phone boxes and community service information. 

Social Connections - General 


Places for 

Socialisation 

City Centre Events and 

Activities 

Where to Go and How 

to Get There 

City Centre – 

Marketing and 

Communications 

Table 32: Social Connections- General 

Develop civic meeting places - city square/ main street; community facilities; public open 

spaces; water playground; pedestrian corridors with amenities. 

Develop commercial facilities - cafes, licensed restaurants, small wine bars. 

Review Shire’s “Creative Communities” plan. 

Expand Shire‘s Cultural Development/Events Team. 

Annual calendar of activities and events promotion and marketing strategy. 

Form steering group and enhance partnership development with industry, government and 

community groups. 

Develop iconic City Centre events such as: 

Weekend night markets (April - October) 

Fundraising activities on the main street/city square 

Staying in Town Activities– specific activities and events for City Centre for those who don’t 

leave city over the summer break) 

7.0 

“Karratha City Centre Alive” street festival – annual cultural event with indoor / outdoor cultural 

activities utilising community facilities, commercial facilities and the public realm. 

Develop a staffed community information booth including community notice board – collocated 

with a City Centre Management Office. 

Design a City Centre map of all facilities and services. 

Develop a City Centre transport plan – incorporating public transport; pedestrian and cycling 

provision and car parking management. 

Conduct regular promotion and marketing of venues and associated activities. 

Develop a specific City Centre marketing and communications strategy involving local 

government, businesses and community groups. 

Develop a Karratha City services guide hard copy and on line) including program / calendar of 

events; services location guide and transport information. 

Develop a community newsletter highlighting City Centre activities and facilities, personalities 

etc. 

151

152 

7.0 

Social Connections –Families 


Family Events and 

Activities 

Host annual season of outdoor family movie nights in Grand Square. (April - October). 

Conduct a “Karratha City Centre Alive” Festival – involving events for all ages, activation of public open 

spaces/streets, performers and other artistic activities. 

Develop a City Centre activity program for all residents to receive in the mail and online. 

Community Facilities Develop a Cultural and Civic Facilities Precinct at entry to city – Council Chambers; Community 

Centre; Public Library; Arts and Cultural Centre and Youth Centre. 

Public Open Space/ 

Public Realm 

Development 

Table 33: Social Connections- Families 

Establish a water play area within City Centre. 

Develop the public open space corridors adjoining the City Centre including pedestrian and cycle 

ways, and amenities such as barbeques, shelters, playground elements kick-about spaces, and skate 

spaces. 

Commence the City square development – including shade, seating; outdoor stage, lighting and 

access to services (electrical 3 phase power in particular). 

Social Connections – Youth 


Youth Facilities Establish new Youth centre/facilities located close to City Centre to allow youth access to 

commercial facilities as well as other community facilities. Centre to include indoor and 

outdoor spaces for a variety of recreation; learning; arts and socialising activities. 

Youth Consultation 

and Engagement 

Establish multi-wheeled track in adjoining public open space. 

Establish a Youth Council to provide a voice to youth. The Youth Council to engage in the 

development of youth focussed events and activities in the City Centre. 

Youth Services Collocate youth service providers at the Youth Centre in a “one stop shop” including health 

providers, career counselling and youth recreation officers. 

Youth Activities - 

Ongoing 

Karratha Youth 

Festival 

Table 34: Social Connections- Youth 

Produce an annual youth services guide, including details of City Centre activities and services. 

Develop public transport routes that provide close access to youth centre, shops and 

recreational spaces. 

Utilise youth centre to provide music programs; dance programs (e.g. Hip Hop) clubs; casual 

“drop in” activities; casual sporting activities; technology access including internet and wi- fi 

connections. 

Develop a youth component as part of other events such as the “Karratha City Centre Alive” 

Festival and FeNaClNG Festival. 

Hold skate and multi-wheeled competitions. 

“Battle of the Bands” and “Battle of the Dance” in Youth Centre/City Centre. 

Conduct an annual youth festival similar to the Portbound Pilbara Youth and Health Festival 

held in Port Hedland. Festival to include indoor and outdoor activities over a weekend, 

including bands, dance, rides, displays, workshops, art activities, recreation activities (e.g. 3 v 

3 basketball).

Social Connections – Fly in fly out (FIFO) / Temporary Workers 


FIFO Integration 

Strategy Management 

FIFO Use of 

Community Facilities 

Table 35: Social Connections- Fly in fly out (FIFO) / Temporary Workers 

Table 36: Social Connections- Seniors 

Establish a working group with companies and other stakeholders to establish a FIFO 

Integration Strategy. A key element of this strategy is to develop initiatives for FIFO workers to 

access the City Centre. 

Encourage FIFO usage of community facilities e.g. FIFO specific publications on access to 

community events, clubs, churches, facilities etc. 

Develop a loyalty card for introductory discounts to local businesses and facilities. 

Provision of transport, cycles etc to enable access to City Centre. 

FIFO Camp Planning Develop new FIFO with a view to community integration – i.e. Shared facilities, access to 

community facilities in City Centre at all hours; development of flexible accommodation that 

can revert to housing when no longer required as FIFO accommodation. 

FIFO – Perception 

Management 

Social Connections – Seniors 


Include “good news” FIFO stories regarding benefits to the community of integration of FIFO 

in the community newsletter and other publications e.g. use of services; economic stimulus to 

the City Centre etc. 

Seniors Facilities Develop a senior citizens centre in close proximity to City Centre for seniors activities and 

services, 

Seniors Activities Develop seniors club activities in City Centre – e.g. exercise classes; special movie events and 

social gatherings, 

Develop a seniors component as part of other activities such as the “Karratha City Centre 

Alive” Festival and FeNaClNG Festival. 

Seniors Transport Develop public transport routes that provide close access to Senior Citizens Centre, shops and 

recreational spaces. 

Integrate the use of community/ seniors “shopper” bus services. 

Provide safe, dual use pedestrian / cycling walkways connecting to City Centre that ors “es 

that provide close access to youth centre, shops and recreational spacese also provides dare 

accessible by scooters. 

Recreation and Leisure 


City Centre 

Recreation and 

Leisure Facilities 

City Centre 

Recreation and 

Leisure Activities 

City Environment 

Management 

Table 37: Recreation and Leisure 

Develop a city square – with flexible use of space, including hard surfaces, shade, seating, 

small grassed area. 

Construct a large magnetised wall with giant metal cut out drafts or chess pieces for outdoor 

games. 

Develop corridor public open spaces, with kick-about spaces, shelters, barbeques, and 

playgrounds etc .Construct walkway connections along the main street from City Centre to 

ocean. 

Establish an outdoor water play area in the City Centre. 

Develop the Community/Civic/Library/Council Precinct development at the entry to the City 

Centre. 

Develop a new youth centre. 

Conduct night competitions and City Centre tournaments – e.g. tenpin bowling, bocce, and 

street soccer. 

Design walking maps and trails that link to the City Centre. These may link to interpretive 

signage for heritage trails leading from the hills and coast to the City Centre. 

Construct facilities for skate and wheeled activities. 

Establish/link to environmental/community groups for care for public open green spaces – i.e. 

foster community ownership. 

7.0 

153

154 

7.0 

Celebration 


Activities and Event 

Calendar 

Key City Centre 

“Iconic” Events 

Table 38: Celebration 

Culture and Heritage 

Develop a city calendar of events, which will include events and activities that occur annually 

within the city – including daily, weekly, monthly and annual activities and events. 

Establish annual iconic City Centre events including : 

“Karratha City Centre Alive” Festival 

Christmas Activities program 

Australia Day Ceremony 

ANZAC Day Ceremony 

Annual wine and food festival 


Cultural and Heritage 

Facilities and 

Amenities 


Trail 

Public and 

Community Art 

Development 

Table 39: Culture and Heritage 

City Centre event to tie in with FeNaClNG Festival 

Develop a cultural/community centre for art and cultural activities within the community 

facility precinct. 

Establish gallery space to highlight/ provide taster to local Aboriginal art and to connect to 

artist community in Roebourne. 

Use external and internal wall space in buildings as gallery space. 

Develop interpretive / cultural trails from the Karratha Hills (Regals) and or/coast through 

public open space to City Centre that maps the history of the Indigenous community and the 

more recent development of resource based city development. 

Establish a Karratha City Public Arts Alliance of key stakeholders including FORM, CANWA, 

Shire of Roebourne and Community Arts groups in Karratha, Roebourne and other towns. 

This alliance can develop community arts projects and seek contributory funding for arts and 

cultural projects including commissioning of public art pieces and community art projects 

(e.g.. city square mosaics, interactive sculpture, city square focal point; decorated bins, seats, 

tables etc to reflect city heritage). 

Focus on creating community ownership and engagement in arts based activities in the City 

Centre. 

Entertainment 


Entertainment 

Precinct in City 

Centre 

Localised Outdoor 

Entertainment 

Annual entertainment 

programmed within 

City Centre 

Table 40: Entertainment 

Develop public facilities that support the provision of outdoor entertainment – e.g. stage area 

in City Centre with appropriate provision of power outlets. 

Establish city planning approval process for commercial enterprises in an entertainment 

precinct – to include nightclubs, wine bars, restaurants etc. 

Seek advice and information from the Office of Liquor and Gaming relating to the best 

developments that will not exacerbate alcohol consumption issues within the City Centre. 

City Centre Management to foster the involvement of a range of street based entertainment 

including: 

Buskers 

Performances by schools 

Live Music 

Street performers 

Develop an annual calendar of events and activities that include entertainment options that 

attract people to the City Centre.

KARRATHA CITY CENTRE ACTIVATION INDICATIVE CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

Table 41: Karratha City Centre Activation Indicative Calender of Events 

January 

February 

March 

April 

Australia Day Event 

Night Competitions – e.g. 

 

tenpin bowling, mini golf, 

bocce 

 

Annual Wine and Food 

Festival 

 

Weekend Night Markets 

Fundraising Activities 

Outdoor Movies 

ANZAC Day Event 

FeNaClNG Festival (31 

 

July and Sun 1 August 

2010) 

 

City Centre Festival 

Annual Youth Festival 

Christmas Event 

Easter Event 

School Performances 

Gallery Exhibitions a a a a a a a a a a a a 

Busking a a a a a a a a a a a a 

City Centre Newsletter a a a a 

Youth Events e.g. music 

programs 

a a a a a 

Staying In Town Event a a 

Live Music Performances a a a 

May 

June 

July 

August 

September 

October 

November 

December 

7.0 

155

156 

7.0 

COMMUNITY FACILITIES – PROPOSED 

INITIAL PROJECTS 

Through consultation with community, stakeholders 

and agencies expert input from project consultants, the 

following community facilities (new or rejuvenated) are 

suggested for development in the initial stages of the 

revitalisation of Karratha City Centre. 

Community Facility Reasoning Aspiration Location Options Timing 

Town Square Currently there are not central locations in 

the town centre that can provide a focus for 

events and activities that will support the 

activation of the area. 

Green Corridors or 

lineal parks linking 

town centre to the 

coast and hills 

The current town centre lacks connection 

and is dominated by car parks. 

The area is currently hot, uninviting and 

does not take advantage of the local 

environment. 

Green corridors will provide linkages, 

promote pedestrian behaviour and mediate 

the climatic conditions. 

There are limited youth services, activities, 

facilities and events in Karratha. 

Consultation has revealed the provision of 

youth services and facilities as being a high 

priority. 

Large numbers of families are reported 

as moving away from Karratha once their 

children reach adolescence, and this has 

a detrimental impact on social capital, the 

pool of local employees and community 

cohesion. 

With a significant population increase 

predicted in Karratha there needs to be a 

cohesive approach to youth development, 

particularly when the current services for 

the existing population are inadequate. 

Table 42: Community Facilities- Proposed Initial Projects 

Central area within City Centre that provides 

a multi use space for use as a meeting place 

and also a multifunctional space for outdoor 

activities and events. 

Requires high level landscaping, shade, 

seating, public art and provision of services 

such as three phase power outlets. 

Square to be accessible by pedestrians and 

cyclists. 

Provision of community parks that provide a 

lineal connection through the town. 

Parks to be developed to cater for a variety of 

uses. 

Provision of community amenities in nodes 

along the lineal parks, including cycle ways, 

footpaths, shade shelters, playgrounds, 

barbeques and public art. 

Indoor facilities. Up to 500 - 750m 2 . New 

2-storey building. Suggested features include 

youth drop in lounge, computer technology 

room, games, recreation (e.g. pool tables, 

table tennis etc.), arts (i.e. band/jamming 

practice room) on ground floor. Upstairs 

offices could cater for administration and 

services (e.g. career, counselling). 

Outdoor facilities could include half/full 

court basketball, skate and other multi wheel 

activities, climbing wall, handball. Flat open 

space if possible to ‘kick a footy’. Open space 

shared with other community facilities if 

possible. 

Within the Sharpe Avenue development 1- 2 

years 

Select appropriate connections from Dampier Road to 

Warambie Road and then further towards the coastline. 

Link to Sharpe Avenue development 

Three potential options in order of preference: 

Option 1: Lotteries House site. This is the best option as it is 

close to public transport, close to the city centre and shops. 

However this site is only suitable if access can be gained to 

the adjoining drainage reserve and the abutting land currently 

for sale (Viacom building site). This additional land is required 

to ensure there is a large enough site to collocate indoor and 

outdoor facilities and parking. 

Option 2. At rear of new Council/civic building adjacent to 

Sharpe Avenue near current aged care and adjacent to church. 

Shared parking with church, shared facilities with church and 

future community centre. This site still provides access to city 

centre, though is further away from public transport. Site can 

be easily accessed in the short term and would work well as 

part of a “community/civic precinct”. 

Option 3. Community Garden site east of Balmoral Road. 

Potential for the youth building to be re-locatable and/or 

converted into building for community garden administration 

and training functions. 

Least desirable site as it is close to residential and is too far 

from the city centre. 

1- 2 

years


Community, Cultural 

and Civic centre 

Public (State/Local) 

Library Resource Centre 

The Karratha community is currently underserviced in relation 

to the number of community centre facilities required to meet 

current population needs. 

The development of an integrated community facilities precinct 

will cater for existing needs and provide the ability to cope with 

further population needs. 

There is the opportunity to relocate the existing library as part 

of the more centralised “Community facilities” precinct to 

create more of a “one stop shop” of services and attract people 

to the town centre. 

Community Garden Community Consultation undertaken by the Shire reveals 

the desire for a Community Garden that provides a positive 

environmental and educational initiative in the City Centre 

University Facilities Currently university students can only access courses via 

external studies or very limited services from Curtin using the 

TAFE facility. 

There is the opportunity to provide greater course options 

through the development of 

University facilities. 

Table 42: Community Facilities- Proposed Initial Projects (Continued) 

A multipurpose community facility providing pavilion space (for 

meetings, functions, exhibitions etc), meeting rooms, kitchen, 

art studios and gallery (at front) and crèche facilities. 

Needs to abut an open space where large facilities or special 

events can spill out, thereby providing an inside/outdoor 

facility. 

Preferably collocated with Council uses where Council 

chambers can be opened up for larger meetings/gatherings. It 

also forms a traditional ‘town hall’ type function. 

Library to relocate from existing site. 

A State/Local public library to be developed within the future 

community/civic precinct. 

Facility can be developed as part of a purpose built future 

community civic building that houses the Shire chambers, 

offices and community centre. 

Facility to be developed overlooking street and youth centre. 

Environmental demonstration and education project that 

features a range of environmentally sustainable initiatives 

including solar/wind power and water harvesting/grey water 

recycling (filtered through reed beds into water tanks for 

gardens plots). 

Facility to incorporate a community facility for educational 

purposes and site management. 

Establish a community ‘workforce’ for enhancing other public 

areas. 

By-product s to include harvested food sold on site. 

Education facilities where students interact and enliven the 

town. Potential to also provide student accommodation in the 

town centre. 

Less “practical” or “hands on” courses such as finance, 

business, and administration could be located at facilities 

in the town centre, with practical/hands on subject facilities 

provided on the existing TAFE/Curtin/ Year 11 and 12 sites. 

In new civic/community precinct at the Sharpe Road 

connection to Dampier Avenue and located in the new 

Council building. 

In new civic/community precinct at the Sharpe Road 

connection to Dampier Avenue. Located within a purpose 

built future community civic building that houses the Shire 

chambers, offices and community centre. 

West of Hillview Road, north of Karratha International 

Hotel adjacent to park. Needs to abut high density 

residential creating a ‘backyard’ for the residents. 

–Less practical/hands on courses to be located in current 

Shire office and in new building(s) at the southern side of 

the Shire building forming the entry statement into Town 

from Karratha Road. 

Possible expansion east towards Searipple Road could 

occur if required. 

Care needs to be taken to ensure that this does not 

sterilize this land. Interim office uses would be suitable. 

Further expansion of the TAFE/ Learning and Leisure 

precinct could be considered. 

7.0 

Whenever new Sharpe Avenue 

extension and civic building becomes 

available - possibly2-5 years. 

Depending on extension of Sharpe 

Avenue, new aged care facility and 

construction of building. State Library 

may require minimum population 

thresholds to be reached. 

2-5 years. 

Some preliminary works (e.g. trees) 

established now, but ideally when 

adjoining land is rezoned. 

2- 5 years. 

Dependent on providers & relocation 

of Shire. 

157

158 

7.0 


Retirement Village There is a limited provision of aged care and 

retirement facilities in Karratha. 

This is a result of a low population of elderly 

citizens. However this low number may be partly 

the result of a lack of facilities to meet the 

specific needs of seniors. 

Caravan/ Visitor/ Truck Parking Provides parking, services and familiarisation 

point close to town for tourists, visitors or drivers 

of large vehicles. 

Needs to be located close to food outlets, service 

station, picnic/open space areas and very close 

to the new entry to town. 

Requires effluent waste disposal and water 

collection point, public toilets, tourist 

information facility. 

Table 42: Community Facilities- Proposed Initial Projects (Continued) 

Small scale: Either single level villas or 3-storey secure 

apartments with lift facilities and secure balconies. 

Large scale: 100-200 Independent Living Units (ILU) 

in a mix of villa’s and apartments with facilities such 

as landscaped gardens, pool, dining hall, recreation 

rooms, minimart, hairdresser and bus to town/Tambrey 

Provides parking, services and familiarisation point 

close to town for tourists, visitors or drivers of large 

vehicles. 

Needs to be located close to food outlets, service 

station, picnic/open space areas and very close to the 

new entry to town. 

Requires effluent waste disposal and water collection 

point, public toilets, tourist information facility. 

Small scale option 1: Relocate existing ILU’s to facilitate 

Sharpe Avenue extension. 

Small scale option 2: 15-30 ILU’s in B4 & B5 (Open Space 

Strategy) at Viveash Way, Bulgarra. 

Large scale option 1: Larger site on Searipple Road /Hunt 

Street at current Karratha Entertainment Complex site 

–Large-scale option 2: Nursing home collocated with 

hospital on Dampier Road with larger ILU complex and 

facilities. 

In southeast corner of town centre using land in central 

cul-de-sac area. Accessed via new extension from Karratha 

Road. 

Small Scale development 1-2 years to facilitate 

Sharpe Road extension. 

Large Scale development - depending on demand. 

(Staged development if possible). 

Dependent on creation of new extension of 

Karratha Road to Welcome Road.

APPENDIX G - BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC REALM 


BUILT FORM 

This City Centre Master Plan (once adopted) will 

provide the Shire with the relevant detail to guide the 

preparation of a new planning framework including 

a Local Planning Strategy and a new City Planning 

Scheme to facilitate and control future land use and 

development within Karratha City Centre. This planning 

framework could be accompanied by a revised policy 

framework including built form design guidelines where 

greater flexibility could be provided to Council that 

encourages housing diversity, sustainability, commercial 

and employment growth, community development and 

good urban design outcomes. 

In terms of achieving the development vision of the City 

of North, the new Scheme will need to be supplemented 

by a suite of planning policies prepared and adopted 

pursuant to the Scheme. These policies will provide the 

detail of how to achieve the desired vision and provide 

both the Shire and the development industry with a high 

degree of certainty as to what can occur, at the same 

time providing flexibility to enable the Shire to support 

good development outcomes not strictly in accordance 

with a prescribed standard. A degree of flexibility also 

needs to be introduced into the planning framework 

to enable it to evolve and respond quickly to changing 

demand and evolving needs within the City Centre and 

policy directions without having to go through a lengthy 

Scheme amendment process. 

There are numerous significant changes envisaged 

for the Karratha City Centre by the City of the North 

Strategy, primarily based on sound urban design 

principles which include: 

Promoting main street type development with 

minimal street setbacks and active frontages; 

Introducing mixed-use development, where ground 

floor uses are predominantly commercial or retail 

uses, with offices and residential uses on upper 

levels; 

Promoting a higher degree of residential 

development and accommodation within with City 

Centre for permanent, semi permanent and visitors 

to promote a wide variety of housing and short stay 

opportunities along with increased affordability 

within the City Centre; 

Introducing a precinct based approach to activity 

within the City Centre which encourages integration 

and the development of interrelationships between 

activities within the City Centre; 

Ensure quality development forms with a sense of 

permanence and the development of a local Karratha 

style to promote a sense of place and local identity 

within the City Centre; 

Ensure that climate responsive design principles are 

utilised for all development within the City Centre; 

and 

Ensure that all built form has a string relationship 

with the adjacent public realm particularly in terms 

of the quality of the building frontage and the 

provisions of shading and appropriate transition 

zones between the interior and exterior of buildings. 

7.0 

It is envisaged that the Scheme Maps will be amended 

to reflect opportunities for growth within the City Centre, 

protect areas of cultural and natural significance 

and that the Scheme Text written to ensure that the 

objectives and development standards are clearly 

articulated and able to be enforced. The development of 

comprehensive design guidelines policy, aimed towards 

aspects of built form, will assist in describing outcomes 

to achieve the desired results outlined within the master 

plan. These include: 

Building massing, heights and setbacks; 

Pedestrian access and comfort; 

Vehicle access and location of car parking; 

Quality of building frontages, streetscape activation 

and visual interest; 

Relationship between the building and the adjacent 

public realm; 

Shading of the public realm; 

Climate responsive design principles; and 

Materials, style and desired design elements. 

The review of the Scheme and the policies should be 

based around achieving the vision of the Karratha 

City of the North Strategy to provide the far-reaching 

planning framework to guide development within the 

Shire as it evolves into a regional City of the Pilbara. 

159

160 

7.0 

APPENDIX H - INFRASTRUCTURE 


TRANSPORT & MOVEMENT 

The Karratha town centre redevelopment plan, developed 

by the Karratha Revitalisation Project Team, represents 

a comprehensive and multidisciplinary proposal for the 

Karratha town centre revamp which resolves identified 

existing traffic issues and provides Karratha with a 

legible and efficient town centre road network. 

The town centre network was developed around the 

following main strategies and actions: 

Provision of a functional, legible and permeable road 

network system; 

Provision of sufficient number of access points to 

the town centre zone from the abutting road network 

to achieve optimum feed and distribution of traffic; 

Provision of an additional east-west corridor 

bypassing the town centre along its northern 

perimeter to cater for through traffic; 

Provision of a low-speed, pedestrian-friendly road 

network; 

Improved connectivity between the remaining 

townsite zones immediately to the east and west of 

the central zone; 

Rationalisation of existing ground level parking 

areas and provision of optimal town centre parking 

coverage; 

Development of an integrated, functional and 

pleasant pedestrian footpath system with suitable 

facilities; 

Development of an efficient cycle path system to suit 

both recreational and functional purposes, integrated 

with the wider townsite cycle path system, which will 

complement the pedestrian footpath network; 

Provision of a suitable public transport route through 

the town centre with bus stops at key activity nodes; 

EARTHWORKS 

Identify and deconstrain fill sources for earthworks 

Future development will require fill material to achieve 

required design levels appropriate for development. 

Establishment of responsible parties to identify and 

progress approvals for the extraction of fill material is 

required. Encouragement of development by the private 

sector, of various sources of fill to provide a competitive 

economic supply should occur in conjunction with the 

Native Title holders. 

ENERGY 

Upgrade underground power network to cater for future demand 

The current upgrading of the townsite power supply 

to a 22kV underground power supply scheme provides 

opportunity for the efficient installation of power supply 

infrastructure to cater for the future growth in power 

loads within the City Centre. Additional funding to 

allow the installation of high voltage feeder cables with 

spare capacity with the current works to cater for future 

growth is of strategic importance. Allocation of funds 

by the State Government to Horizon Power should be an 

immediate action. 

Establish a natural gas reticulation network in Karratha 

Karratha is the logistics hub for an intensive offshore oil 

and gas industry, and natural gas is extensively used in 

the production of power on-shore. Despite this, natural 

gas is not reticulated to domestic users who rely on fully 

electric systems in some cases supplemented by 

bottled LPG. 

Calculations based on an estimated average household 

energy consumption for Karratha indicate that at least 

26% of a household’s greenhouse gas emissions could 

be saved simply by enabling the use of gas hot water 

systems. This compares to 29% for an electric boosted 

solar hot water system and 33% where a gas boosted 

solar hot water system is used. Further small savings 

are expected to be made by enabling gas cooking and 

gas heating, which are preferred by many residents. 

Home GHG 

Emissions 

Reduction (%) 

Whole of 

development 

(12,400 

residences) 

GHG 

Emissions 

Reduction 

(tonnes 

CO2-e) 

Home 

with 

electric 

HWS 

Home 

with 

gas 

HWS 

Home 

with gas 

boosted 

solar 

HWS 

0 26 33 29 

Home 

with 

electric 

boosted 

solar 

HWS 

0 20,000 25,000 22,000 

It is recommended that a natural gas reticulation 

network be established in Karratha to capture the 

available reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, and to 

enhance the liveability of the settlement. 

Establish and embed a new benchmark for energy efficient 

built form 

The energy consumption of new households can be 

substantially reduced by energy efficient design and 

construction of the dwellings. Orientation, construction 

materials, insulation, location of windows and shading 

together with choice of energy components such as 

appliances, hot water systems and use of photovoltaic 

cells can ultimately eliminate household greenhouse gas 

emissions and energy costs. 

It is recommended that a specification be developed 

for new housing in Karratha. This would indicate the 

design components that would contribute to achieving a 

benchmark for energy consumption and greenhouse 

gas emissions. 

Rooftop Photovoltaics to be included in the residential specification 

Photovoltaic power is becoming more popular in the 

residential sector, due to the increased availability 

of funding for rooftop photovoltaic cells and public 

concern about climate change. Despite this, it is still a 

reasonably expensive option for the householder. The 

procurement of a substantial number of photovoltaic 

systems can significantly reduce single system costs, 

particularly as a result of reduced transport and 

installation costs. Where these bulk discounts are 

available, such as in the case of purchasing for a new 

development, the net present value of the system and 

energy costs can be reduced to, or less than, the net 

present value of the business as usual case. 

The greenhouse gas emissions associated with a typical 

Karratha residence could be reduced by 90% by the 

use of a 2kW photovoltaic system and a solar hot 

water system alone. With additional energy efficiency 

measures as described above, such as residence could 

become energy neutral, even with a smaller 

photovoltaic system. 

It is recommended that rooftop photovoltaic systems for 

residences be included in the specification for energy 

efficient built form, and that a bulk purchase agreement 

be pursued.

Establish a District Cooling project for the Town Centre and other 

high density nodes 

The 86MW open cycle power plant currently under 

construction in Karratha will produce a large amount of 

waste heat. An open cycle gas turbine is around 30% 

efficient, which means that around 70% of the energy 

provided by the input fuel is lost, mostly as heat. This 

waste heat could be used to benefit the community 

by the provision of district cooling. District cooling 

would be supplied by the action of absorption chillers 

that would provide reticulated chilled water for airconditioning 

of dwellings. Absorption chillers provide 

cooling by using a heat source to power the refrigeration 

process and could operate using the waste heat from 

the power station. This approach could greatly reduce 

the power required for cooling homes while also using a 

source of energy that would otherwise be wasted. 

The diurnal pattern for electrical power demand 

in Karratha is dominated by the demand for airconditioning 

in the heat of the day. New power plant is 

typically introduced to meet the peak load demand that 

is dominated by the air-conditioning demand, and this 

has the potential to be deferred if the peak load due to 

air-conditioning is reduced. A district cooling system 

operating on waste heat from the power plant therefore 

has the potential to improve the investment efficiency in 

future power plants and upgrades for Karratha. 

The proposed district cooling system would potentially 

comprise of a heat recovery steam generator attached 

to the power plant, and an arrangement of absorption 

chillers, possibly with some additional electric chiller 

systems to maintain electricity and heat demand ratios 

when electricity demand is low. Examples of district 

cooling systems with reticulated chilled water pipeline 

lengths as greater than 80km exist, such as Tabreed in 

the United Arab Emirates 5 . It is also possible to use 

5 http://www.tabreed.com/ourSchemes.aspx 

chilled water storage tanks to improve the efficiency of 

the system and improve load-shifting response. Chilled 

water would be reticulated to individual air handling 

units located at each site to provide air conditioning on 

demand. A portion of the chilled water produced could 

also be used to cool the air intake of the gas turbines, to 

improve the efficiency of the power plant. 

GHD has conducted some initial estimates of the system 

sizing requirements, based on a high-level system 

design. It is estimated that around 100 tonnes per hour 

of steam could be generated as part of a heat recovery 

steam generator system attached to the two 43MW gas 

turbines. Large absorption chillers (such as the Broad 

BYS1000 6 with a cooling capacity of 11.6MW) have 

a steam consumption of approximately 12.5 tonnes/ 

hr at 96 o C and a pressure of 116psig. This means that 

there is sufficient waste heat capacity for a number of 

absorption chiller units to be installed. Some absorption 

chiller units operate directly from the turbine exhaust 

rather than requiring steam, which has the potential 

to reduce the overall capital costs by as much as 10- 

15% as a heat recovery steam generator would not be 

required. 

The chilled water reticulation would operate on a closed 

loop. Based on a 7 o C outlet and 14 o C inlet temperature, 

a 10,880kW cooling capacity would air-condition around 

68,000m 2 of floor space. Water flow requirements for 

a system this size would be around 372L/s, which 

would require significant pumping capacity. The 

current estimate of the floor area for the town centre 

redevelopment (including residential and retail / 

commercial) is around 500,000m 2 . Meeting this demand 

would therefore require 7 to 8 large absorption chiller 

units to satisfy cooling requirements. This is consistent 

with the capacity of the power plant to supply waste 

heat to the absorption chiller system. 

6 http://www.broad.com/english/product/zykt/x_en.pdf,pg12 

The basic analysis presented here and desktop research 

of existing systems, suggests that a district cooling 

system operating using the waste heat from the power 

station is a feasible alternative to conventional electrical 

air-conditioning for the new development. It has the 

potential to realise considerable energy and cost 

savings. It is recommended that a more detailed study 

quantify the costs, energy savings and engineering 

requirements associated with the opportunity. 

Fund projects that will firmly establish the NWIS with Horizon as 

the operator. 

The Pilbara region is serviced by the North West 

Interconnected System (NWIS), which is an electricity 

network covering an area measuring around 400km east 

to west and 350km north to south comprising around 

1,400 km of transmission lines. The NWIS is owned by 

Horizon Power, Alinta, Rio Tinto and BHP. Generation 

capacity in the NWIS is currently around 846 MW, with 

around 346MW of this capacity islanded and therefore 

not available to the grid. An additional 450MW capacity 

for the Citic Pacific iron ore facilities, and 150MW for 

Woodside’s Pluto project are expected to come online in 

the near future, but neither will be connected to the grid. 

Electricity trade in the NWIS is based solely on bilateral 

contracts and self-supply. Rio Tinto supplies to itself and 

Horizon Power, Alinta supplies BHP Billiton and small 

amounts to Horizon Power, and Horizon Power supplies 

to the remainder of grid-connected domestic and small 

commercial customers. 

Horizon Power supplies power to the Karratha 

community by purchasing power from Independent 

Power Producers (IPPs) operating on the network, 

and distributing this to customers, largely via informal 

agreements. Horizon Power also plays a role in 

scheduling generation and ensuring quality of supply, 

however there is no centralised planning for the NWIS as 

a whole, either on an operations basis or for the 

7.0 

planning of common infrastructure. To date, government 

involvement in the governance and regulation of the 

NWIS has been minimal compared to its involvement 

with the SWIS. 

Horizon Power expects that energy demand in the 

Pilbara will increase by between two and four times 

during the coming decade and that further significant 

investment in energy infrastructure in the region will 

need to be made. In the absence of co-ordinated 

planning to develop new assets, there is the risk that 

developments will be inefficient leading to unnecessarily 

high greenhouse emissions, sub-standard supply to 

industrial and local communities, and sub-optimal 

investment decisions. 

While significant benefit in terms of settlements, energy 

efficiency and economic efficiencies are achievable 

though improved co-ordination and governance, a SWIS 

style system is not necessarily appropriate to the NWIS. 

The solution must be tailored to factors such as the 

size of the market, the remoteness, industry dynamics 

and the fact that co-ordinated governance has not yet 

emerged. 

It is recommended that the Infrastructure Co-ordination 

Committee campaign for the formation of a Horizon 

Power led body for short, medium and long term 

planning of infrastructure and operations on the NWIS. 

Work towards a Solar Flagships project for the NWIS 

The Federal Government has made $1.5 billion dollars 

available to proponents of large-scale solar thermal 

and solar photovoltaic projects under the Solar Flagships 

fund. The first round of funding opened in December 

2009. Solar Flagships funding has only been made 

available to projects operating on the National Electricity 

Market (NEM) and the South West Interconnected 

System (SWIS). 

161

162 

7.0 

Solar irradiation levels in the Pilbara are some of the 

highest in the world. This means that solar energy 

installations in the Pilbara would have a significantly 

higher output for a given capital investment than 

the same installations in more southern regions. 

Solar energy projects in the Pilbara could be highly 

competitive in the Solar Flagships grants process, if they 

were eligible to apply. 

It is recommended that the case be made to the Federal 

Government for the inclusion of the NWIS in the next 

round of funding made available under the Solar 

Flagships program. 

New development to form a Smart Grid 

Smart meters are electricity meters capable of 

measuring and recording energy consumption in short 

intervals, and allow two-way communication to energy 

providers, enabling them to read and control features 

of the meter remotely. Combined with the provision 

of time-of-use tariffs, where the electricity provider 

prices power according to the different costs incurred 

in providing that power at different times of the day, the 

user can minimise their own electricity bill. The Smart 

Meter also provides a customer interaction interface 

via an in-home display that provides real time feedback 

on electricity and gas consumption, enabling the user 

to understand their patterns of energy use. Used in 

conjunction with a rooftop photovoltaic system, the 

user can schedule their power consumption to coincide 

with the provision of renewable energy by their rooftop 

system. 

The use of Smart Meters (in a Smart Grid) also benefits 

the energy provider by enabling demand management 

either by remote switching, programmed set points, or 

modified user behaviour. Trials conducted by Western 

Power have shown that there is significant potential for 

both demand management and deferred 

infrastructure spending. Western Power will be engaged 

in a more extensive trial of the Smart Grid during 2010. 

Smart Meters also have the potential to assist power 

companies with maintaining system reliability and 

enabling further uptake of distributed generation. 

The Smart Grid is also expected to be safer. 

Smart meters would provide a pathway to demand 

management, both by user behaviour modification and 

also by remote and local switching. It would enable 

both the homeowner and Horizon Power to monitor the 

performance of a distributed power system. 

It is recommended that the progress of the Western 

Power Smart Grid trial during 2010 be monitored, and 

other existing trials be researched. The inclusion of 

Smart Meters in the specification for new housing in 

Karratha should be evaluated against expected benefits 

to the householder and benefits to the energy service 

provider, Horizon Power. It is recommended that Smart 

Meters be evaluated for inclusion in the specification for 

new housing in Karratha. 

Upgrade Karratha Power Station to full combined cycle status 

over time 

Horizon Power is currently constructing two new 

43MW open cycle gas turbines in Karratha (a total of 

86MW). This is expected to meet community demand 

for another 5-7 years, and Horizon sees the option to 

expand this plant further to around 150MW with the 

addition of a further open cycle gas turbine and a heat 

recovery system to enable full combined cycle operation. 

Combined cycle power plants are typically 60% efficient 

compared to around 30% efficiency for open cycle 

plants, and therefore the greenhouse gas intensity of the 

power plant would be reduced by enabling the combined 

cycle option. 

The requirements for the upgrade of the power station 

should be fully established, including required noise and 

air quality boundaries. It is recommended that Horizon 

Power continue to pursue the design and plan for the 

upgraded power plant towards achieving full combined 

cycle status. 

WATER 

Model stormwater drainage 

Optimisation of the use of spare land within existing 

drainage corridors and verification of proposed 

drainage relocation works will require the completion 

of a two dimensional drainage model. Completion of 

two dimensional drainage modelling will allow accurate 

determination of land required for drainage corridor 

sizing and appropriate development levels resulting 

in the balance land being available for other uses. 

Commissioning of drainage modelling by the State and 

Local Government is a high priority immediate action. 

Upgrade bulk water supply source 

The capacity of the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme 

is currently nearing or is at capacity depending on 

preceding rainfall events. Augmentation of source 

capacity and reliability by means of a potable water 

desalination plant is of critical importance to growth 

of Karratha. Allocation of funds by State and Federal 

Government (if possible) to the Water Corporation for 

the design and construction of a desalination plant 

and associated delivery infrastructure is an immediate 

critically required action. 

Implementation of water efficiency measures by private 

residents, business and government is required in the 

short term, to allow growth of the City, while expansion 

of the bulk water supply scheme is constructed. 

Provision of a corridor for water distribution main 

installation from Burrup Peninsula to Karratha as 

part of the Dampier Highway upgrade design works 

is a required action by Main Roads WA and the Water 

Corporation. This will facilitate a cost efficient and timely 

installation of the required connecting pipeline link. 

Upgrade water reticulation network to cater for future demand 

A review of the water supply planning based on the City 

Centre and City Wide Growth plans to define required 

pipe work and storage tank upgrades is an immediate 

required action for the Water Corporation. 

Upgrade sewer reticulation, transfer & treatment capacity to cater 

for future demand 

Review of the Karratha sewer scheme to define upgrades 

to suit the City Centre and City Wide Growth plans, to 

accommodate both near term and long-term growth 

is an immediate critical required action for the Water 

Corporation. 

The incorporation of the modern sewer treatment 

technology provides significant opportunity for recycling 

of wastewater as part of the sewer scheme review. 

TELECOMMUNICATIONS 

Implement National Broadband Network in Karratha 

The 22kV underground power upgrade works provide 

opportunity for shared installation of conduits for 

additional broadband telecommunications network 

requirements. An immediate required action is 

coordination of Horizon Power and Telstra works to allow 

timely and efficient infrastructure installation.

Sourcing of funding for the retrofitting of existing 

areas of the Karratha city centre and townsite 

is a required action for Local, State and Federal 

Government depending on the outcomes of pending 

Telecommunications Legislation Amendment – Fibre 

Optic Cable. 

WASTE MANAGEMENT 

The Shire of Roebourne Waste Management Strategy 

needs to be customised to the specific conditions and 

requirements of the Karratha townsite and town centre. 

The Waste Management Board of WA developed the 

Zero Waste Plan Development Scheme (ZWPDS) in 

2006 to support local governments to align with the 

State’s vision Towards Zero Waste. The Regional Waste 

Management Plan (RWMP) developed by the Pilbara 

Regional Council (PRC) forms part of the State’s overall 

vision. The RWMP will guide the management of solid 

waste in the Pilbara Region over the next 10 years. 

The PRC comprises of the Shire of Roebourne, Shire 

of Ashburton, Shire of East Pilbara and Town of Port 

Hedland. 

The goals of the ZWPDS are: 

Development of a Strategic Waste Management 

Plan (RWMP in the case of the Pilbara region) that 

outlines the steps to be taken to minimise the direct 

and indirect environmental impacts of waste and its 

management over the next five years; 

Management of waste in a sustainable manner; and 

Increased awareness of the impact of waste issues 

on the environment by the whole community. 

To achieve the objectives and progress towards the 

goal of the Karratha Growth Strategy, the following is 

recommended: 

Alignment with Regional Waste Management Plan and WA 

Waste Strategy 

The PRC developed the RWMP in March 2008 that 

identified opportunities for the sustainable recycling 

and/or re-use of materials in the region and reflected 

the aspiration of the community to have increased 

recycling services available in the region. It is 

acknowledged that a number of waste initiatives for the 

Revitalisation Plan may have been explored previously 

(or are currently being explored) by the Shire or PRC. 

Waste related activities should cover the areas of 

residential; building and construction; green and 

commercial and industrial wastes. 

For both the townsite and centre: 

Waste related efforts need to be aligned with the 

RWMP and the WA Waste Strategy in terms of 

priorities and associated activities. 

The strategy should consider waste management 

options against the WA Waste Strategy’s waste 

management hierarchy: avoidance; resource recovery 

(including reuse, recycling, and reprocessing or 

energy recovery) and disposal. 

Waste Education and Awareness 

Raising awareness and educating the residential and 

commercial community about waste management is 

a key component of successful waste management 

strategies. This is particularly relevant for Karratha, as 

the RWMP has identified that high contamination rates 

of recycled domestic waste is a significant issue that has 

prevented the success of previous recycling initiatives. 

Community education is needed to ensure the success 

of future waste management initiatives. 

Waste education and awareness initiatives will provide 

both environmental and health benefits for the Karratha 

townsite and town centre. 

For both the townsite and town centre: 

Encourage community ownership and involvement in 

keeping areas clean. 

Reduce contamination rates of recycling bins. 

In addition, for the townsite specifically. 

Discourage illegal dumping. 

Increase awareness and use of special waste 

collection services (e.g. commercial oil waste). 

Establishing links with local schools in achieving 

the objectives and goals of the waste management 

strategy. Schools education program can provide 

the opportunity to teach children the correct way to 

manage waste. 

Centralised Waste Drop-off Facilities 

Anticipated population increases will increase the 

volume of waste generated and this will result in 

opportunities to create regional economies of scale. 

It is likely that it will be feasible to develop drop-off 

facilities for both residential and commercial wastes 

(e.g. plastics, e-waste). Drop-off facilities should be 

feasible for Karratha and developed in combination with 

recycling hubs at community centres and Roebourne/ 

Wickham waste transfer station. 

For the townsite: 

Investigate centralised drop-off facilities for the 

processing of recyclables (e.g. plastics, e-waste, 

organic wastes, packaging). 

Investigate recycling hubs at Roebourne/Wickham 

waste transfer station. 

For the town centre: 

7.0 

Investigate recycling hubs at the town centre as an 

alternative option to a kerbside recycling service. 

Resource Recovery Facilities and Waste Collection Services 

Resource Recovery Facilities (RRF) are facilities used in 

waste treatment processes to recover resources such as 

energy, compost, recyclable material and other reusable 

material. 


Investigate access to resource recovery facility (or 

facilities) operating in the region to facilitate the 

diversion of waste to landfill. 

For both the townsite and the town centre: 

Develop waste collection services to suit the waste 

processing facilities in the region and access to RRF 

(i.e. investigate the appropriateness of segregating 

different waste streams such as plastics or glass 

based on the facilities available to process these 

waste streams. If there are no available facilities, the 

segregation and collection of these waste streams 

may not be applicable). 

Regional Recycling Initiatives and Local Markets 

Similar to centralised drop-off facilities, anticipated 

population increases resulting in increased volumes of 

waste will facilitate the feasibility of a kerbside recycling 

collection service. The RWMP currently indicates a 

potential for such a service with current waste data. 

High volume waste streams such as metals and tyres 

also have the potential to be recycled. 

163

164 

7.0 

Local markets are likely to be developed due to high 

volume waste streams such as construction and 

demolition (C&D) and commercial and industrial (C&I) 

wastes. The RWMP has identified that the majority of 

wastes received at the Karratha Seven Mile Landfill 

is construction and demotion and commercial and 

industrial waste. 


Investigate a regional recycling initiative for 

municipal and C&D wastes to reduce waste to landfill 

and improve recovery rate of recyclables. 

Investigate reuse opportunities for C&D, C&I and 

green waste within the townsite and region. 

For the town centre: 

Investigate a regional recycling initiative for C&I 

wastes to reduce waste to landfill and improve 

recovery rate of recyclable materials. 

SERVICING PLAN 

Figure 93: Servicing Plan outlining existing utilities within the existing Centre. 

164

EcoStar is an environmentally responsible 100% recycled paper made from 100% post-consumer waste that is FSC CoC certified and bleached chlorine free (PCF). The mill operates under 

the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System which guarantees continuous improvement and is PEFC certified for traceability. 

165

166 


Shire of Roebourne Administration 

| Lot 1083 | Welcome Road | PO Box 219 | Karratha | WA 6714 

P 08 9186 8555 | F 08 9185 1626 | E sor@roebourne.wa.gov.au

CITY CENTRE MASTER PLAN - Shire of Roebourne - The Western ...

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

CITY CENTRE MASTER PLAN - Shire of Roebourne - The Western ...

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?