In a recognition of the importance of the project, YWCA Canberra’s application to develop supported housing for women at risk of homelessness in Ainslie has been called in by the Minister for Planning and Land Management.
The not-for-profit has been seeking to develop land it owns in Ainslie into nine units to house older women on modest incomes and women with children escaping domestic violence, for the past two years. The development has been opposed by a small group of local residents, causing a costly delay to the project, which received $1.2 million in funding from the federal Government in 2019.
With the development application called-in, YWCA Canberra can now move forward to progress this important project, which will help increase supply of supported housing during what has been declared a significant housing crisis across Australia.
CEO of YWCA Canberra, Frances Crimmins, said the organisation is pleased that the Minister has exercised his call-in powers to help expedite the process for the YHomes development.
“The Minister’s call-in powers exist to ensure that important developments that have a clear benefit to the community are able to proceed in a timely manner. This means that we can start the process of making YHomes a reality, to support women and their families as soon as possible,” Ms Crimmins said.
“Our development has been through a DA process and public consultation period prior to the current DA which has been called in – the community has had ample time and opportunity to table their views, and YWCA Canberra has listened and adjusted our development plans each time.
“We are confident that our development has considered and incorporated the views of the community, and that the significant support from local residents for this important and purpose driven development will continue into the next phase of this process.
“We would like to thank Minister Gentleman for making an informed and considered decision in calling this application in.
“We are now excited to begin the process of drawing up building plans for this development, and look forward to working with our partners, supporters and key stakeholders to bring this development to life.”
Residents in support of the development have responded to the Ministerial call-in positively.
“As an Ainslie resident I am delighted to know that the YWCA’s housing project designed to meet an urgent and growing need is to proceed at last. Its residents will have affordable and safe accommodation which is close to transport, medical facilities and shops. Co-residence will provide the benefit of mutual support and efficiency in service delivery,” Ms Meridith Edwards, a local resident, said.
Another Ainslie resident, Tony Adams has closely followed the proposed development as he lives nearby. Mr Adams says that he and his family “…are very pleased to see it now proceeding, providing a vital housing service for a particularly needy group. The planning approval process has ensured that all local views have had a very good hearing and the right decision has now been made.”
YWCA Canberra will be seeking support from the construction industry to make this development a reality. Construction companies, materials suppliers, and other provider who would like to be part of this innovative, purpose-driven development, are invited to contact the organisation.
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