A development assessment panel has approved Stockland’s plan to build an independent living complex in the state’s South West, estimated to cost $142 million.
A development assessment panel has approved Stockland’s plan to build an independent living complex in the state’s South West, estimated to cost $142 million.
Stockland proposed to construct an over-55’s village on Rendezvous Road in Vasse, comprising 214 detached homes and four communal buildings.
The Regional Development Assessment Panel today approved the application, after a meeting that lasted almost two hours.
The Vasse project would be the latest in Stockland’s Halcyon land lease community series, following complexes in Piara Waters and Sinagra.
Stockland project director Andrew Wallis said there had been a strong interest in the land lease model.
Under the model, homes are sold to owner-occupiers at a discount to the homeowners' existing house price, allowing downsizers to release equity from their family home.
Mr Wallis said the Vasse complex would provide another housing option for people over 55s looking to be within the South West region’s lifestyle.
“Land lease communities like Halcyon Vasse are an important part of the housing continuum, increasing the supply of housing by providing those over 55 with more choice in a beautiful part of WA,” he said after the meeting.
“Our focus at Halcyon Vasse is to create a vibrant and active community designed for over 55s where homeowners feel connected and have access to quality facilities on their doorstep.
“The community provides a convenient lock-and-leave lifestyle so homeowners can choose to spend more time travelling, socialising, and enjoying what the region has to offer.”
The proposed Halcyon Vasse community will be built on a 14-hectare site.
Despite the City of Busselton’s planning officers recommendation for approval, the project had attracted some concerns from locals.
DAP member and City of Busselton councillor Anne Ryan was the only one who voted against the proposed Vasse independent living complex.
At the meeting, Cr Ryan said there were concerns over the proposed entrance and exits from the complex on to the road.
“I don’t support this application in absence of a structure plan, especially in light of the road development… and its effects on surrounding landholders in the new estate and on Rendezvous Road and the wider area,” she said at the meeting.
“However, the speed limit is 100km/hr on Rendezvous Road and while 55 is not old – especially when you’re already at that age – the aged might have issues accessing this road when the speed limit of 100km/hr prevails.”
DAP deputy presiding member Karen Hyde backed the application, saying the project was much in demand for its housing typology and product.
"It would create level of affordability and convenience for downsizers," she said.
"As we grow older, it’s a very important thing to remain part of the community and part of the familiar places we have lived in previously."
