Housing Minister Richard Wynne today turned the first sod on construction on a new housing development for Reservoir that will replace outdated units built in 1954.
“The Brumby Labor Government is committed to providing more high quality affordable housing options to low income families in areas of need such as Reservoir,” Mr Wynne said.
“That is why we are funding this $15.9 million project to replace outdated units on the Cheddar McMahon Estate with modern and environmentally-friendly homes.”
“The project would create about 55 jobs for construction workers.”
The new development, at McMahon Road, will have 53 new public housing units, an increase on the original 28 units.
“These old units will be replaced by new high quality homes with a mix of one, two, three and four bedrooms,” Mr Wynne said.
“The apartments will be suitable for a wide range of tenants, including families, older people and singles that are public housing eligible.
“All units will be accessible to visitors in wheelchairs and four units will be built specifically for people with a disability.”
Mr Wynne said the units would have an average six star energy rating and grey water recycling.
“These design features will lower water and power costs for residents and reduce the impact of cooling, heating and lighting on the environment,” he said.
“The development will also provide private backyards and common open spaces, vastly improved on-site car parking with one car park allowed for each home and extra car parks provided on-site for visitors.”
Member for Northern Metropolitan Jenny Mikakos said the project would create about 55 jobs for construction workers.
“Another major benefit is that it will create jobs for around seven public housing tenants to train and work in the construction industry, and related fields,” Ms Mikakos said.
Member for Preston Robin Scott said the Cheddar McMahon Estate was in the middle of the East Reservoir Neighbourhood Renewal area.
“Through Neighbourhood Renewal, the Brumby Labor Government has committed more than $5.2 million in East Reservoir, including more than $3.3 million for more than 200 housing upgrades and immediate improvement works,” he said.
“In 2009-10, a further $1.4 million has been allocated for infrastructure projects, housing works and other Neighbourhood Renewal activities.”