Atherton’s in demand
Green light for new housing project
A RESORT-STYLE retirement facility is coming to the Tablelands, as developers proceed with plans to construct a versatile housing project in the region.
Sunshine Group now has preliminary approvals in place to build a 76-lot facility at the intersection of Weaver Street and the Kennedy Highway.
With one- and two-bedroom units backing on to luxurious swimming pools, communal areas and significant landscaping, the ambitious proposal is set to be built in two stages.
According to the Tablelands Regional Council meeting agenda, the infrastructure agreement will cost more than $2.1m.
Mayor Rod Marti said the Sunshine Group was granted reduced infrastructure charges that normally covers three-bedroom homes.
“On that basis, we reduced the concession for two bedrooms and one bedrooms. If they build a three-bedroom, they’ll have to pay the higher infrastructure charge,” he said.
With Atherton already home to two existing aged-care facilities, Cr Marti said this new development would make it the town’s third facility.
“Atherton has a higher older demographic than their larger cities,” he said.
The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics states the median age for residents in Atherton was 45 years old and also revealed 6.7 per cent of the population was between the ages of 60 and 64 years old, making it the largest demographic.
According to the TRC’s meeting agenda, the 25.105-hectare site will “contribute to the mix of housing stock on offer in Atherton”.
Cr Marti said the facility would accommodate a broader group outside aged care and cater to the demand they were experiencing from younger people.
“One of the problems we have in the community is the shortage of tourist accommodation, we get a lot of visitors in the region, professionals visiting in town, medical, construction,” he said.
“(We need) accommodation that’s available for professional people coming for a few months that meets their expectation. It’s a very significant development.”