The upgraded homes are located in three separate buildings, and come complete with rooftop gardens and courtyards. Every unit also has a balcony and is fitted out to attain a six-star energy rating. Wendy Lovell, Housing Minister, said:
“The estate was built in 1967, making it one of Melbourne’s first high-rise public housing estates. It’s wonderful that nearly 50 years later we are entering a new and exciting stage.”
A playground and landscaped park is also part of the makeover. The attractive green space connects the estate with the rest of Prahran at the Malvern Rd entrance. There is even a competition to name the new grounds, using local history, vegetation and culture as inspiration.
Joining Ms Lovell at the opening were federal MP Kelly O’Dwyer, state MP Clem Newton-Brown and a number of Stonnington Councillors. The development is expected to be the first of many, with a master plan already on show and another round of community consultation to take place in 2014.
In total, more than 185 new properties will be created, thanks to a $62 million Commonwealth Government commitment to fund affordable housing.
The upgrades come after a number of campaigns of persuasive action over the past decade. Supporters of the project have worked tirelessly with the help of printing companies to promote the cause. Poster printing and flyer printing can be extremely effective when it comes to creating public awareness and attracting government support.