What's been dubbed Australia's 'first intergenerational university community' is one step closer, in a move which could see retirees and aged care residents living on-campus alongside visiting students and preschoolers.
The University of Wollongong has lodged a DA for a masterplan concept for the first phase of its Health and Wellbeing Precinct.
The $250 million precinct, to be built on a 3.5 hectare site at the University's Innovation Campus in Fairy Meadow, will combine health research and teaching, independent housing for over-55s and an aged care facility, a community health centre and a childcare centre.
The 220 independent living retirement complex will be operated by Lendlease, and there will also be a 120-bed residential aged care facility on-site.
Lendlease Retirement Living Managing Director, Nathan Cockerill, welcomed the submission of the development application.
"We're excited to be one step closer to realising our vision to provide independent living accommodation for over 55s, where they can reap the benefits of intergenerational living and having the best facilities and research taking place on their doorstep," Mr Cockerill said.
"Social isolation is one of the biggest issues facing older Australians. Our residents will have the chance to interact with people of all ages who are visiting the precinct daily, whether for work, classes, healthcare or childcare or simply to enjoy the new precinct facilities and spaces.
"They'll also enjoy the benefits of living in an environment that supports a healthy active lifestyle, close to beaches, recreational reserves and cycleways."
The masterplan also includes a new large green open space, situated at the heart of the precinct and open to the whole community, as well as a wellness centre, cafe and community hub.
The university-operated primary community health centre will combine community health services with a focus on teaching and research activities in health-related disciplines.
University of Wollongong Vice-Chancellor, Paul Wellings, said the precinct was a "groundbreaking" project.
"The Health and Wellbeing Precinct is a truly transformative project that will focus on one of the great challenges of our time: an ageing population, and deliver innovative research and education solutions," said Professor Wellings.
"By fostering collaboration across higher education, industry, health care providers, government and the community, this project will enable education, research and service delivery that benefits local residents and influences how health and aged care is delivered far beyond our region."
Since the plan was announced in 2018, the university and Lendlease have engaged with community and stakeholders, holding community feedback and information webinar sessions.
Work is expected to start in 2022 with an opening date slated for 2024.
For more information on the project, click HERE.
Geraldine Cardozo
Features Editor at The Senior.
Features Editor at The Senior.
