AUSTRALIA — Uniting NSW.ACT has announced significant updates to its Waverley Estate redevelopment plans following extensive community consultation in late 2021.
The revised master plan aims to address the growing need for high-quality, contemporary seniors’ accommodation and services in the area while preserving the site’s rich heritage.
The proposed redevelopment, which will be carried out in two stages, includes a mix of residential aged care, retirement and independent living apartments, along with 23 affordable rental apartments.
These facilities will be co-located with on-site support services, catering to the changing needs of seniors.
Key changes to the redevelopment plans include:
- Heritage preservation: All Victorian heritage buildings will be retained, and historical features such as the chapel and gates will be restored and improved.
- Affordable housing: A minimum of 10 per cent of all dwellings will be designated as affordable rental apartments, making the Estate one of the few locations in the area providing affordable housing for seniors.
- Traffic management: A new basement car park will be created, accessible from Bronte Road, to make the Estate more pedestrian-friendly. Traffic studies indicate minimal impact, even during peak hours.
- Environmental conservation: The tree canopy will increase from 27 per cent to 44 per cent, with one additional major fig tree being retained. Usable green landscaped spaces will more than double.
Simon Furness, Uniting Director of Property and Housing, emphasised the importance of community feedback in shaping the revised master plan.
“Our vision at Uniting is to allow the ageing population to live in their own homes for longer, while still having access to the key services they need as they age,” he stated.
Adrian Ciano, Head of Property Development, highlighted the commitment to preserving and enhancing the Estate’s heritage features.
“We understand the value of our heritage assets and have operated and maintained the Estate to a very high standard for over 100 years,” Ciano said.
Uniting War Memorial Hospital will continue to operate all its services throughout the proposed redevelopment and beyond.
The organisation has assured residents and community members that all services at the Hospital will continue without interruption.
For residents who need to be relocated during the redevelopment process, Uniting has committed to providing support in finding alternate accommodations and connecting them with additional support as required.
The public is encouraged to provide further feedback on the project website, where up-to-date information on the development plans can also be found.