The City of Melbourne is seeking community feedback as it explores an opportunity to convert a Council-owned site in North Melbourne into affordable housing.
Independent analysis shows the municipality currently has a shortfall of at least 5,500 affordable rental homes, which is forecast to quadruple to more than 23,000 by 2036 if no action is taken - driving thousands more Melburnians into housing stress.
A recent survey of City of Melbourne residents found 95 per cent supported the use of Council land for affordable housing.
Early assessments suggest the project could create between 30 and 60 purpose-built affordable homes.
A 31-space open-air car park at 44-60 Curzon Street is being explored as a suitable site, due to its size, location and proximity to services and amenities.
A parking study, using data gathered before and during the pandemic, found the Curzon Street car park is underutilised, and sufficient on-street parking is available.
Community members are invited to have their say on the proposal to transition the car park into affordable housing via Participate Melbourne from 4 April to 15 May.
Council will consider community feedback at a Future Melbourne Committee meeting later this year. If endorsed, further community consultation will be undertaken as part of the design and planning process.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Sally Capp
"We have a responsibility to make sure our city is inclusive, fair and liveable for everyone, so we're working to increase the supply of appropriate affordable rental housing in our municipality."
"We know the delivery of affordable housing has significant benefits for the local community. For every $1 spent on affordable housing, more than $3 in benefits flow into the local economy."
"There's no single solution to the affordable housing crisis and we can't solve it alone. We're looking forward to working with the community to explore the suitability of the proposed site in North Melbourne."
Quotes attributable to Health, Wellbeing and Belonging portfolio lead Councillor Dr Olivia Ball
"There's a significant shortfall in affordable housing in Melbourne, and the pandemic has led to even greater demand."
"This proposed project aligns with Council's Affordable Housing Strategy 2030, which commits to leasing one of our sites for an affordable housing project in the next five years."
"We've partnered with the Victorian Government to deliver more accessible housing at the Munro development in our city's inner north, and we look forward to supporting new projects that give people a safe and stable place to live."
