Monday, 22 January, 2007

by Adrienne Francis
ABC NT TV News

The resurgence of mining in Batchelor is showing signs of buoying the housing market.

Compass Resources new oxide mine may only create up to 85 new jobs, but land values have doubled over the past 2 years.

SHOTS:
4WD drives past miners cottages

VOICER:

These historic cottages were built in the 1950's to house workers of Australia's first uranium mine, Rum Jungle.
Now they're being given a new lease of life.

Worth around $80,000 two years ago, their value has jumped to over $200,000.

GRAB: Frank

"Activity has really picked up. What we have seen over the last 4 years is just a gradual increase from pretty average 10 sales a year to 36."

VOICER:

But the demand could create a housing shortage.

There's no-where to expand within the town boundaries, and much of the crown land surrounding Batchelor is under Native Title claim.

Plans to subdivide rural blocks into housing estates are now being considered.

GRAB: Frank

"Say if there were 100 houses built, then they are obviously going to need more commercial infrastructure there and who knows, you might see a development of a real commercial hub

VOICER:

But the pace of development is worrying some residents.

SUE MORNANE is eager to ensure the towns unique heritage and character, is carefully preserved.

GRAB: Sue

"Hopefully the historical township of Batchelor will be preserved with a green belt, what we call the open wildlife flora and fauna corridor"

VOICER:

Driving the activity is Mining company Compass Resources who are building a Copper, Cobalt and Nickel mine near Rum Jungle..it will employ up to 85 workers by July.

GRAB: Richard

"Just in case there is a squeeze, we have started some discussions with people such as the Coomalie Council, ah the traditional owners, to look at ways that additional housing could be made available if it's needed."

VOICER:

Compass Resources says hundreds of workers would need to be housed if Uranium mining gets the go ahead.