As part of a commitment to improving housing outcomes for Victorians, Minister for Housing Wendy Lovell has announced the development of new social and private homes at Valley Park in Westmeadows.
Ms Lovell today launched the Valley Park redevelopment, a partnership between the Victorian Government, residential developer Australand and not-for-profit social service provider Baptcare.
“This project will provide at least 145 full time jobs through the four year construction phase,” said Ms Lovell.
“One of the aims of the redevelopment is to take into account the beauty of the local area.
“New parks, green walkways and bike paths will be built across the redevelopment to allow better pedestrian access and social interaction.
“The new estate will mean better social housing, as well as new privately-owned properties, and aged care accommodation,” Ms Lovell said.
This project breaks down the traditional barriers that have existed between public housing estates and the rest of the community.
When completed, the Valley Park development will consist of:
- more than 220 privately-owned homes;
- 110 social housing properties and 34 independent living units as part of the aged care precinct, making a total of 144 affordable rental homes; and
- a 120 bed aged care home to be owned and developed by Baptcare.
The first stage of the development, The Rise, will transform the existing public housing area known as The Mews.
In addition, two former school sites, Erinbank Secondary College and Westmeadows Heights Primary School are planned to be rezoned for parklands and housing.
“Ultimately the redevelopment aims to provide more and better private and social housing and to create a more cohesive, better connected community,” Ms Lovell said.
“It’s an excellent example of the Government working with the private sector and not-for-profit service providers to develop affordable housing.”
The entire project is expected to cost $160 million, with the Victorian Government contributing $56 million.
Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Craig Ondarchie said the new mix of social and private housing would revitalise the area.
“I’m proud to be part of the Victorian Coalition Government’s commitment to making a real difference to housing and community outcomes in the northern metropolitan region,” said Mr Ondarchie.