A $300 million seniors' housing development will rise from the former TAFE campus at Charlestown, delivering hundreds of new independent living units, residential apartments and assisted living options.
The landmark development by Uniting – one of Australia's largest for-purpose, non-profit organisations – marks the first time the NSW Government has granted State Significant Development Approval (SSDA) for a seniors' living proposal under its new Housing State Environmental Planning Policy.
Uniting Director of Property and Housing Simon Furness said the new complex would provide significant benefits to the Lower Hunter, generating jobs and providing a range of housing and care options for older people.
"The demand for retirement living options is increasing rapidly," he said.
"Almost one in three people in Lake Macquarie is aged over 55, and the number of people aged 65 and over is expected to increase by almost 30 per cent over the next 20 years."
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the development's location and mix of housing aligned with Council's vision for the area.
"It's close to existing services, shops and transport, it addresses our growing need for new housing, and it will be a driver of employment for many years to come," she said.
The Tiral Street development will feature four separate buildings, varying in height from 5-14 storeys.
It includes community facilities for socialising, a hair salon, pool, clubhouse, landscaped rooftop with BBQ area, outdoor seating and dining, cafe, walking paths, landscaped grounds and gardens and chapel/multi-faith space.
Visiting rooms for GPs and allied health practitioners, and a wellness centre are also included in the plans.
"Uniting's development is also just a few blocks from the new $30 million medical centre under construction on Smith Street, and two minutes from the health precinct expanding around Lake Macquarie Private Hospital," Cr Fraser said.
Mr Furness said he was "delighted" the NSW Government had recognised the need to fast-track the development under its SSDA process.
"Recognising the demand and ongoing need for quality retirement living options, Uniting is steadfast in our plans to double the number of independent living units over the next 10 years to around 6,000, primarily driven by the building of new retirement villages," he said.
Uniting, one of Australia's largest non-profit organisations, expects the project will support 600 jobs throughout construction and another 150 jobs once complete.
As part of its focus on supporting seniors and providing retirement living options which enable a continuum of care, the development's four buildings will include more than 200 independent living units and a residential aged care home with 120 beds.
Work on the tender process will commence in early 2024, with the aim being to appoint the builder by late 2024.
Construction is anticipated to commence in early 2025.
