Plibersek backs affordable housing project

More than 130 students from Sydney University School of Architecture created models for three-storey walk-up apartments that could be built on the former Marrickville Hospital site.

The small apartments range in size from 40 to 60 square metres with constructions costs of $70,000 to $100,000, thanks to not-for-proft builders and caravan and boating technology. Apartments would appeal to singles and couples on low incomes who are ecologically-minded, with water storage tanks and grey water recycling loos and gardens also a feature.

Sitting alongside retail and commercial buildings the basements of the apartments would remain the title of Marrickville Council with housing co-operatives managing occupants.

Marrickville Council initially agreed to have the students present to Councillors, but have since reneged due to inner fractions over the idea. Allaying commercial viability concerns, Professor Col James said the models are consistent with industry standards. “This is a real project with real ecological advantages for students and other communities that find it hard to own their own homes,” explained James.

Plibersek believes affordable and sustainable housing projects are particularly important in the inner city where density should feature in areas supported by local transport. “These kinds of projects are particularly attractive for Government land and under-utilised warehouses,” said Plibersek. “This is another exemplary step forward in the creation of low cost housing that minimises the impact on the environment.”

Marrickville Council is currently conducting a feasibility study for redevelopment of the former hospital site. With only weeks left of the student exhibition at the Home Ideas Centre in Alexandria, James implied the onus was now with Marrickville Council. “This is an opportunity for local government to make a statement on housing affordability,” said James. “We will continue to lobby for their involvement.”

Photo: Ben Falkenmire - Tanya Plibersek with Sydney University student Hao Kuan Cai

Source South Sydney Herald September 2007 - www.southsydneyherald.com.au