2 days ago
Eyesore Perth housing tower makes way for ‘lifestyle' build
Construction has started on a new four-storey build-to-rent project in Perth's inner-north, replacing the abandoned Stirling Towers public housing block.
The 12-storey Stirling Towers was built in Highgate in 1971 and was a constant source of tension in the area, until major plumbing problems contributed to the decision to vacate the high-rise block, which was finally demolished in July.
Housing Minister John Carey said that he was confident the 109 units set to replace it would not suffer from the same social issues.
'It's about the design, this was one large tower,' he said on Monday.
'We've been able to create lower stories but two wings, there's really greater integration with green space, outdoor space.
'But the other critical part is the community housing provider.
'Where we have larger style precincts then we are using community housing providers and the reason is simple, they can have greater tenancy support and services at that larger scale, and on site tenant support if required.' The design for the new Smith Street build-to-rent project in Highgate. Credit: Tetris Capital
Premier Roger Cook, Mr Carey and Federal Minister Matt Keogh inspected progress at the site, with the State Government chipping in $30 million and the Federal Social Housing Accelerator Payment funding a further $46 million.
The first tenants are expected to move in late 2027, with a total of 109 one and two-bedroom units set to include 78 social housing homes, affordable housing and NDIS acccommodation.
Mr Carey, who recently accused some local councils of blocking high or medium-density development, said it was an example of what was needed to cope with rapid population growth.
'We've made it very clear that we have to integrate social housing and community housing across all suburbs and, in my own electorate, I'm not a hypocrite,' he said.
'I have three major social and affordable projects. This project, Pier Street and, of course, Fraser Suites. And, yes, you always get a mixed reaction but, ultimately, with 22,000 people on my waiting list, I have to do everything I can to get these types of projects off the ground.' Housing and Works Minister John Carey and Premier Roger Cook. Credit: Riley Churchman / The West Australian
Tetris Capital director Brent De Jong said the Smith Street development had been designed with neighbours and amenity in mind, even retaining a lemon-scented gum tree the local community wanted to keep.
'Providing a much better spatial and visual fit within the context of the broader Highgate landscape,' he said.
'It's delivering a rooftop garden with barbeque area, it's delivering a residence lounge. There's a communal courtyard with a kids play area.
'These are all things that we can build a community around.'
