Uniting NSW.ACT wants to put up four buildings for approximately 220 independent living units, and 130 residential apartments, plus assisted living options, on the former TAFE campus site in Charlestown in Lake Macquarie, NSW.
Uniting Head of Property Development Adrian Ciano said the local community was important to the Uniting Church and that the redevelopment was an investment in the long-term future of Charlestown.
“We are looking to build services that encourage a socially inclusive community where people feel they are active members, regardless of their age or the level of support they require,” he said.
“We’re committed to ensuring the development is in keeping with the evolving character of Charlestown. Uniting has worked closely with Lake Macquarie Council to create a design that will benefit the local community.
“If the development is approved, it will create between 150 and 170 jobs through each stage of the construction, which is approximately 680 jobs.
“Once the residential aged care home, café, wellness centre and consulting rooms are operational, it is anticipated more than 130 additional jobs will be created.
“We’re committed to supporting older people to live independently at home, as their needs change. The proposed design of the apartments and community facilities aims to support easy continuity of service delivery, both within their home and across the development. “Uniting intends to help people to stay healthy, well and socially connected. The proposed purpose[1]built, on-site seniors’ wellness centre will support people to do just that.”
Uniting NSW.ACT, which aims to invest around $3 billion in the next decade, is inviting the community to have its say on a major integrated care site in NSW’s Lake Macquarie region.
The carefully designed residential aged care home will include approximately 120 beds including dementia specific support.
It also will feature community facilities for socialising and activities, including a hair salon, pool, club house, private outdoor landscaped rooftop with BBQ area, outdoor seating and dining, café, walking paths through the site landscaped grounds and gardens and a chapel/multi faith space.
There will visiting rooms for GPs, allied health practitioners and a wellness centre.
“Community consultation is an integral part of the planning process and will help us better meet the needs of the Charlestown community,” Uniting Director of Property and Housing Simon Furness said.
“Uniting appreciates redevelopment plans can feel disruptive to residents and the community and that is why we are conducting a series of community consultations to gather feedback. A consultation report will be made available on our website in the coming months.”
