BHP Billiton is building an instant town for more than 2,500 workers near its Jansen potash mine site, 100 km. north of Regina. When compared to some northern cities, the new town will provide services older centres still strive for: like high-speed broadband and a movie theatre.
Work is already underway on the temporary work camp that represents the largest Canadian community ever supplied by Calgary-based Atco, which has provided housing for the Alberta oil patch and other projects.
Atco is working with the Gordon First Nation and two other native Indian bands on the project that will feature two-storey modular homes and a dining hall and recreation centre. First Nation members will be given job training and priority hiring, according to both Atco and BHP Billiton.
The Atco community features high-end amenities including two pre-engineered buildings, a 20,000 sq. ft. sports complex with gymnasium, squash courts, weight room, and a raised running track that overlooks the gym. A separate building will house a 200-seat movie theatre.
The core building includes a 1,200-person dining room, a separate private dining area, lounge, library, convenience store, medical centre, and full laundry. Each suite will include a flatscreen TV, phone and wireless Internet capabilities. The first phase, comprising 500 rooms, will be operational in October 2012 with completion of the full 2,586-room camp and facilities scheduled for mid-2013, according to Atco.
Chris Ryder, a spokesman for BHP Billiton said the community is another sign that the $12 billion "world class" Jansen mine is moving forward. "The camp is a very good sign, the fact that we've sunk two shafts almost 30 metres so far is a very good sign," he said.
