It will be the first project for seniors and people of all abilities to be approved under the new State Significant Development (SSD) pathway.

The five-building project in Lake Macquarie’s Charlestown between Dudley Road, James Street and Tiral Street will deliver 120 residential aged care bedrooms, 203 independent living units and 133 residential units for other members of the community, as well as supporting 600 construction and 150 operational jobs.

Lake Macquarie has a higher proportion of residents over the age of 50 and forecasts show residents over the age of 80 will see the largest increase in the local government area by 2041.

The approval follows changes to the Housing SEPP (State Environmental Planning Policy) earlier this year to allow more opportunities to develop seniors and all abilities housing.

It is being led by the Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (NSW) which runs nearby care and retirement living facilities in Belmont North, Singleton, Salamander Bay and Hamlyn Terrace.

For more information visit the NSW Planning Portal

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“This development will provide a welcome boost to seniors’ housing supply in Lake Macquarie.

“Elderly residents need a greater variety of places to live including supported accommodation.

“We are enabling this through more diverse options for our growing population with safe and modern housing for seniors, and a sense of community and connection among residents."

Minister for Seniors and Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison said:

“This development offers state of the art, accessible homes for residents close to key amenities including public transport, shops and health services in this major commercial centre.

“Housing supply remains a top priority and we will continue to support the growth and delivery of more homes across the Hunter so more people can live in places they love, close to family and friends.”