Rental residence aid
Poor quality Auckland Council housing stock for the elderly is in line for an upgrade. Eligible residents can now look forward to improvements in the quality of their council-supplied accommodation.
The major boost to redevelop the portfolio of villages comes through a new partnership with the Selwyn Foundation.
Many of the council’s 1452 rental units across 63 villages are rundown and poorly located for amenities such as public transport. 1452 council rental units
63 villages across Auckland
Work will commence in September Project to span 15-20 years
The council’s Governing Body approved the over-arching plan and the business model for the partnership this week, giving the city’s urban development agency Panuku Development Auckland the mandate to action the development and proceed with the partnership. Panuku will ensure the new homes address the needs of older people both in location and quality.
The initiative will be selffunding where Panuku will make better use of some sites, while others that are not fit-for-purpose will be sold to free up funds for reinvestment in the redevelopment of the villages.
Deputy mayor Penny Hulse says this initiative is about improving the quality of housing for older people and the associated services they are provided.
‘‘Many of the homes don’t meet the needs of our older people. It can be something as simple as hallways not being wide enough for Zimmer-frames, or that the villages are located blocks away from a bus stop.’’ Hulse stressed the council’s promise not to reduce the current number of homes.
The Selwyn Foundation is a New Zealand charitable trust which provides retirement accommodation and care around the country.
Work on villages will commence in the next few weeks and the initiative overall is long term spanning 15 to 20 years.
The joint venture company is expected to be established by March 2017, with the operations of the villages transitioning to the new partnership over the next six months. Two bedroom apartment, one bathroom and car park Undergoing remedial work.
Sold by Bayleys City Living
Check out the Central Homes section of your paper for listings.