BaptistCare is looking to increase its supply of affordable seniors housing, applying to council to add 15 new units to its existing Springwood centre.
The $4.3 million development comes just as council is seeking public feedback on a proposed ageing policy, which includes a focus on housing for older residents.
BaptistCare has put in a DA to add to its Wingara Hamlet centre on Macquarie Road, which provides 40 housing units to older residents.
BaptistCare’s communications manager, Elizabeth Byrne said there was a critical need for more age-appropriate affordable housing for seniors in the area, including those on low incomes, particularly given the ageing population in the Mountains.
“BaptistCare is focused on developing housing appropriate for elderly residents in the area, supported by BaptistCare’s suite of aged care, home and community services,” she said.
“If the development application is successful, it’s anticipated construction will commence in December 2017 and the housing will be ready for occupancy in February 2019.”
The Mountains’ population is older and ageing faster than the NSW average, according to council’s draft ageing strategy, which is on exhibition until April 26.
The report notes: “The Blue Mountains LGA has the highest median age in metropolitan Sydney (43.5). The area is also ranked third in metropolitan Sydney for percentage of the population older than 65 years (18.1 per cent).”
It said the higher median age could be attributed to the fact that the area is so attractive to retirees, as well as the reality that many younger people have to move out of the area for higher education and jobs.
One of the major issues is housing, the report found. Opportunities to build new dwellings are few, forcing many older residents to move out to Lithgow, Bathurst or elsewhere.
Although some of the grand old hotels in Katoomba, such as the Cecil, are currently being adapted for affordable aged housing, the report suggested council should actively investigate the provision of accessible and adaptable housing, particularly in town centres, as well as review any barriers that exist to the provision of seniors housing.
Other key areas identified by the strategy included making outdoor spaces and buildings more age-friendly, looking at transport options and health-related issues.
The strategy aims to help council deliver better infrastructure and services to older people in the Mountains. It is at bluemountainshaveyoursay.com.au/agestrategy. Submissions are open until May 12.
