10 new homes for women in need of safe, stable housing are a step closer in Launceston, after the city council endorsed the project.
The council voted last month to recommend the Tasmanian Planning Commission approve Homes Tasmania’s plan to build the units at 18-20 Ellison Street in Newstead.
According to the council agenda, the site was previously used as a residential hostel and is currently vacant.
It will be rezoned from community purpose to general residential so the development can go ahead.
Homes Tasmania said the project would deliver six two-bedroom and four three-bedroom units for women on the state’s housing register.
“Launceston is the highest-ranked location of preference for people on the housing register, highlighting the importance of increasing housing supply in the region,” Homes Tasmania said.
Each unit will be built to the silver level of the liveable housing design guidelines, ensuring the homes are “adaptable and support residents to live independently”.
The agency said the development would achieve a 7-star energy rating to reduce heating and cooling costs while lowering environmental impact.
“The new homes will be designed to provide safe, comfortable and accessible living environments for women of different ages and abilities,” Homes Tasmania said.
The site will include 14 resident car parks and three visitor spaces.
Two submissions were received during the public exhibition period, with the council agenda noting concerns about construction traffic, parking and increased density in the street.
One resident asked whether access could be provided from Amy Road instead of Ellison Street.
A planner said Ellison Street was the only access point and a traffic impact assessment had not identified concerns about the street’s capacity.
The Tasmanian Planning Commission will make the final decision.
