Affordable Housing for Temora
Published on 15 April 2021
Temora Shire Council is partnering with Argyle Housing with the intention to develop a new housing estate in Apollo Place, Temora.
The proposed partnership aims to provide affordable and accessible housing options for seniors and elderly residents looking to downsize and age in place, people with accessibility and mobility issues, and lower income earners looking to get into the housing market.
“Council identified a hole in the housing market for people who could not afford large builds but did not meet the requirements for social housing,” said Temora Shire Mayor, Rick Firman.
Council purchased the land in Apollo Place in 2018 and put out an expression of interest to developers who might have been able to assist with achieving Council’s goal. Argyle Housing’s objectives aligned perfectly with the vision Councillors had for the land.
“Councillors and senior staff have been working very hard to address our current housing shortage,” said Mayor Firman.
“Council is delighted to be exploring a partnership with the reputable Argyle Housing. Together we will strive to work on suitable solutions, which will be done in a professional, considered and cost-effective manner.”
Argyle Housing is a not-for-profit community housing provider that manage properties in 12 regional cities throughout the Southern and Western parts of NSW. They aim to provide and manage secure, social, and affordable housing for people on low to moderate incomes who would otherwise struggle to find accommodation.
“Argyle Housing already has several developments in the Riverina and South West Slopes,” said Argyle Housing’s CEO, Wendy Middleton.
“This development will open up a lot of opportunities for a large portion of the community who may otherwise fall into the cracks.”
Plans are currently being drawn up for a number of two bedroom units which will meet accessibility requirements for people with mobility issues. Many of the dwellings in the Apollo Place development will address ongoing issues that come from having an ageing population.
For people who do not meet the criteria for government social housing, but whose income restricts their access to quality accommodation, this development could be of great benefit.
“With a development like this one, sales and rental prices of the properties will be 30% lower than market value, allowing lower income earners to access suitable housing based on eligibility requirements,” said Ms Middleton.
“This covenant means the area can be developed and maintained to ensure that this niche in the market continues to be met and Council’s vision to meet community needs is sustained.”
The proposed development will be rolled out in stages and is expected to begin within the next few months once details are confirmed.