Barunga West Council has taken a further step in addressing the regional housing crisis with the release of 18 new allotments for sale on Grace Harwar Drive in Port Broughton.
This new development, located behind Moshulu Street, provides much-needed residential land and marks a proactive move by Council towards addressing the housing shortage in the area.
Each of the 18 allotments exceeds 1,000 square metres, offering ample space for new homeowners and growing families. The development will be serviced with mains water, power, bitumen roads, curbing, and street lighting. Its prime location, close to quality homes and within walking distance to the main street, ensures convenient access to local amenities.
Port Broughton offers a range of essential services, including a school, hospital, doctor’s surgery, IGA, post office, hardware store, hotel, bakery, butcher, marine store, deli, helipad, and chemist. It also boasts excellent sport facilities and groups, such as golf, bowls, netball, football, and cricket. The town’s close proximity to the Clare Valley wine region, Port Pirie, Kadina, Wallaroo, Moonta, and North Beach, adds to its appeal.
This new residential development is part of Council’s broader strategy to boost housing availability and contribute to the National Cabinet’s goal of creating 1.2 million well-located homes over five years, beginning in July 2024. Barunga West Council has committed to contributing at least 67 new properties annually.
Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope said the development was a critical step in addressing the housing shortage in the region.
“By acquiring and developing land for residential purposes, we are taking decisive action to ensure a steady supply of affordable housing, contributing to our goal of maintaining a two per cent annual growth rate,” she said.
The council is in negotiations with the State Government for potential sites within the subdivision to implement three dwellings under the Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme. This initiative aims to promote affordable housing solutions for essential community workers, fostering a vibrant and sustainable community.
With a recent 2.5 per cent increase in new properties, accounting for 69 additional ratepayers, the demand for housing in the Barunga West region at the top of Yorke Peninsula is clear.
Council’s expedited home approvals and a $500 annual rate rebate for first-time homeowners further support new development and growth in the area.
Ms Wauchope said that to meet the increasing demand for housing in the region, it was vital to ensure a sufficient supply of suitable residential land within the Council area. This required careful planning to designate specific zones for residential development, rather than repurposing them for agricultural activities such as cereal cropping. Understanding this need, Barunga West Council made a decisive move by purchasing land to extend Grace Harwar Drive, creating a new residential development.
“The initial landowner had no plans to develop this land, largely due to the significant costs of bringing essential utilities like power and water to the site,” Ms Wauchope said.
“Recognising the impact this could have on local housing, Council took proactive measures to acquire the land and ensure it is used for residential purposes.”
Rather than waiting for other parties to address the issue, Barunga West Council continues to take the lead in tackling the housing shortage head-on. Their goal is to create over 300 new, affordable housing blocks to alleviate the regional crisis.
Barunga West Council encompasses key locations like Port Broughton and nearby towns such as Fisherman Bay and Bute, all within a two-hour drive from Adelaide. Mayor Leonie Kerley said she was excited by the prospect of welcoming new members to the community.
“We’re thrilled to see new residents joining our vibrant Port Broughton community. This development will bring fresh energy to the area, and we’re eager to see the positive impact it will have,” Mayor Kerley said.
“Port Broughton has so much to offer – from our beautiful beaches to our welcoming residents – and we’re excited to share it with new families and individuals. This new development is just the beginning of a bright future for our region.
“As Port Broughton grows, so do the opportunities for everyone. We’re looking forward to seeing new friendships, businesses, and connections that come with this exciting development.”
