A City of Port Phillip carpark will be turned into affordable apartments for singles, families and people with a disability, the Minister for Housing has announced.
Minister Richard Wynne said the $22 million 46-apartment complex (artist impression pictured) would be built in partnership with Housing First and City of Port Phillip Council on the Marlborough Street, Balaclava site.
“Our Building Works investment will refurbish, upgrade and build more than 23,000 properties across the state, making sure Victorians have the safe and affordable housing support they need,” he said.
Mr Wynne said Council would provide the land in exchange for it being developed as affordable housing.
“Clever design means nearby businesses and shoppers will still have access to a public car park when a replacement is completed underneath the apartment complex,” he said.
Port Phillip Housing Trust trustee, HousingFirst will develop and manage the property, except for the basement car park and expanded nearby Balaclava Walk, which will remain Council’s responsibility.
There will also be a mix of tenants eligible for the homes, including people over 55 and people with disability.
The project is set to include several “twin key” apartments, which are two neighbouring apartments with an additional shared entrance.
“These apartments provide more space for larger families or a second room if a tenant requires a carer,” Mr Wynne said.
City of Port Phillip Mayor, Bernadene Voss thanked the Victorian Government for its backing of the project.
“This development couldn’t have happened without the Victorian Government’s funding,” Ms Voss said.
“The is a great example of what can be achieved when local government works with the State and housing associations to provide much needed housing in our backyard and we hope more partnerships will follow.”
