Community & Business
5 April, 2023
New apartments get green light
A DOUBLE-storey building to be constructed in Atherton, which will accommodate 16 units, has been given the go-ahead by Tablelands Regional Council.
Carinya Home for the Aged is planning to construct the new building at 2 Mazlin Street, which will house 12 two-bedroom units and four three-bedroom units as well as 24 car parking spaces.
But according to the development application, the units will be rented out to persons of any age group, giving more options for medium-density living within Atherton.
Carinya’s chief executive officer David Osborne said the development was intended to provide a mix of independent living units.
“Like what we already provide in Carrington Court, and, if required, accommodation for staff moving to the area or unable to get suitable living arrangements in the local area,” he said.
Councillors welcomed the new units, with Cr Kevin Cardew describing it as a “great initiative” by Carinya, with housing at a premium at the present time.
Cr Bernie Wilce agreed, saying it was fantastic facility with a great location.
“To me, it’s a benchmark for this type of facility,” he said.
Cr Bilney said the units would meet the growing needs of the community and asked whether the developers would qualify for concessions under the council’s medium-density incentive policy.
A council officer confirmed they would be able to apply for the concessions once the development permit was in hand and if they could meet the June 2025 deadline for completion of the project.
However, that seems unlikely given Mr Osborne says construction could be years away.
“There are no immediate plans to commence these works, realistically nothing will happen in the next couple of years,” he said.
“With the costs of building at a premium, we need to be able to complete this project when feasible for Carinya.
“We know the demand for this type of accommodation is significant and I believe that it will continue to be high for years to come.”
The development approval is valid for six years.
