A $300 million seniors' housing development will rise from the former TAFE campus at Charlestown, NSW, delivering 120 residential aged care beds, hundreds of new independent living units and assisted living services.
Uniting director of property and housing Simon Furness said demand for retirement living options is increasing rapidly.
"Almost one in three people in the Lake Macquarie region is aged over 55, and the number of people aged 65 and over is expected to increase by almost 30 per cent over the next 20 years."
Mr Furness said it marked the first time the NSW Government has granted State Significant Development Approval for a seniors' living proposal under its new Housing State Environmental Planning Policy.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the location and mix of housing aligned with the council's vision for the area.
"It's close to existing services, shops and transport, it addresses our growing need for new housing, and it will be a driver of employment for many years to come," she said.
The Tiral Street development will have four separate buildings, varying in height from five to 14 storeys.
They will include more than 200 independent living units and a residential aged care home with 120 beds.
Also included is a hair salon, pool, clubhouse, landscaped rooftop with barbecue area, outdoor seating and dining, cafe, walking paths, landscaped grounds and gardens and a chapel/multi-faith space.
Visiting rooms for GPs and allied health practitioners and a wellness centre are in the plans.
"Uniting's development is also just a few blocks from the new $30 million medical centre under construction on Smith Street, and two minutes from the health precinct expanding around Lake Macquarie Private Hospital," Cr Fraser said.
Uniting expects the project will support 600 jobs throughout the construction period and another 150 jobs once complete.
Work on the tender process is under way with the aim being to appoint the builder by late 2024.
Construction will start in early 2025.
Therese Murray
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
