Minister approves land for Balingup aged housing

10/8/06
The State Government has moved to help local authorities address a shortage of aged housing in the South-West town of Balingup.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan has approved the transfer of Crown land at a nominal price, so an aged persons' village can be built in the town.
"Under the proposal, the community-managed charity Vintage Home for Life Limited will co-ordinate and manage the construction of three aged persons' cottages in Balingup," Ms MacTiernan said.
"We fully support this community driven initiative to develop self-help aged persons housing and services.
"The Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup is working closely with the Vintage group, to help it achieve its goals.
"A condition of the transfer is that the land is to be used only for aged persons' accommodation and associated community purposes, and must be held by a legally recognised charitable group."
The Minister said providing suitable aged care accommodation was an issue facing many small country communities.
Collie-Wellington MLA Mick Murray said this was a good example of what could be achieved when the local community was supported by their shire and the State Government.
Ms MacTiernan congratulated all those who had worked together to progress the project and provide Balingup with a much-needed service.
Minister's office - 9213 6400