Council is progressing its efforts to provide better and more affordable housing for the local population as the demand for both rental and freehold properties increases.
Reflecting on historic development rates, Director Economic & Community Development, Michelle Evans, explained that from 2006 to 2016 a total of 237 private dwellings were constructed in Leeton. This equates to approximately 24 houses per year. Current forward projections estimate an increase to 25-30 new dwellings per annum.
"Over the next 20 years, 600 more dwellings will need to be built. This has required robust strategic planning which has been underway for the best part of 2023," she said.
Specifically, Council has initiated the development of a new Housing Strategy, succeeding the existing Leeton Shire Council Housing Strategy 2021-2041. The new Housing Strategy will reflect a changing strategic landscape as well as various demographic factors. It will:
• Identify future development and rezoning opportunities for housing;
• Identify residential land, housing types and associated demand and supply;
• Provide an 'action plan' for attracting development;
• Consider constraints and opportunities on existing and future development areas, including natural hazards;
• Outline a recommended staging plan for land release and infrastructure delivery;
• Provide necessary strategies and actions to achieve the outcomes of the strategies.
In line with the new Strategy, Council is looking at future options to develop and subdivide some public land into housing blocks with two locations currently being examined: the old caravan park site on Brobenah Rd which is currently being used as a dog park and Conapaira St in Whitton.
Mayor Cr Tony Reneker said he was looking forward to strengthening the Shire's opportunities to increase local housing.
"Our Community Strategic Plan called for a range of improved and affordable housing, including rental, for families, retirees, migrant workers, and vulnerable people. As a Council, we are committed to facilitating solutions, including making Leeton attractive for developers," he said.
Council would like to also reassure the community that if the dog park on Brobenah Rd was to be developed, an alternative park in a suitable location in Leeton would be developed in its place.
Once the DRAFT Housing Strategy is completed, it will be placed on public exhibition and all stakeholders, including the community and developers, will be invited to have their say. This is expected to take place in late February/early March 2024.
