An artist’s impression of Wesley Mission’s proposed build-to-rent complex in Curtin. Images: AMC.
A prime corner block in Curtin owned by the Uniting Church is set to be developed into a build-to-rent community and supportive housing complex.
The Wesley Mission has lodged a development application for the proposed $46.5 million project for the 5345 square metre block on the corner of Carruthers and Theodore Street opposite the Curtin shops.
The DA says the new housing is intended for disadvantaged and low socio-economic residents, essential workers, and people with enduring mental illness.
Two six-storey towers are proposed, comprising 83 affordable housing units, as well as a separate two to three-storey supportive housing building called Myhome of 15 accessible units, specifically designed for residents dealing with mental illness, and one stay-in caregiver unit with private facilities.
The community housing will be a mix of 44 one-bedroom, 34 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom units.
The DA says the new housing will provide bright, modern, architect-designed homes close to employment, education and recreation opportunities, connected by public and active transport.
When built, light rail Stage 2B to Woden on Yarra Glen will only be a short walk away.
An aerial view of the development, showing rooftop solar, gardens and its urban context.
The site currently contains a brick house and garage, which will be demolished, while established trees will be removed.
A lower ground floor will provide 54 car parking spaces, including eight accessible spaces, and 19 on-street parking spaces are proposed along Martin Street, where driveway access is located.
The number of car parks is less than required due to a proportion of residents not expected to own a vehicle and proximity to public transport.
Wesley Mission will also manage on-site car parking and provide car sharing and electric bikes.
Site investigations have ruled out below-ground parking due to geotechnical constraints.
Bicycle storage will be available on the lower ground and first floor, as well as bike racks for visitors in public areas. End-of-trip facilities for staff will be provided.
The DA’s traffic reports say the development will generate an extra 59 trips during peak times.
A view of the northwest entry shows the plaza and pocket park.
Plans show the buildings set along the boundaries with an internal corridor stretching from the bottom of Carruthers Street to the middle of the western boundary, linking Yarra Glen to the shops.
It will feature a central open space running from lower Carruthers Street to the centre of Theodore Street, a landscaped pocket park with seating at the corner of Carruthers and Theodore Streets and pedestrian pathways.
“The proposal includes covered communal spaces, outdoor courtyards, and shared circulation areas that encourage engagement between residents and the wider community,” the DA says.
The design includes perimeter landscaping, new street tree planting along the northern and western boundaries, deep soil zones for mass planting and green buffers.
The total landscaped area comprises 27 per cent of the project area, including 82 new trees, resulting in a new canopy coverage of 2166 sqm or 40.5 per cent of the site area.
The project is oriented north to capture sunlight and solar panels on the roof will reduce energy costs.
Comment on the DA closes on 30 May.
