News
7 December, 2024
Woolmar gets retirement
A new retirement village has been given the tick of approval for construction in Woolmar, west of Kilcoy.
Somerset Regional Council approved Alliria’s development application for an over-50s retirement village on November 27. The family-owned developer aims to provide housing options for older Australians in boutique communities within established areas.
The proposed Woolmar village will feature 276 units with community amenities, including a dining hall, commercial kitchen, bar, sporting facilities, and a pool. The units will range from two to three bedrooms and include a bathroom, ensuite, and full dwelling facilities, such as a double garage.
Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt highlighted that the retirement village would be a significant economic boost for Kilcoy, offering numerous employment opportunities in construction and operation. "Kilcoy is a welcoming place for the retiring community, and we look forward to seeing how this development can support the town’s growth," he said.
David McKenzie, Alliria’s National Development Manager, emphasized the importance of local employment, noting that being their own builder allows them to source local tradespeople, operators, and specialists from the existing community. "We are operators who commit to the long term and want to engage with the community from the start," Mr. McKenzie stated.
Cr Wendt also pointed out that the facility would address some of the housing needs in the broader Somerset region. "Many older residents are looking to downsize once their children leave home, and supporting this transition means larger family homes in the region can be better utilized in the housing crisis," he explained.
Mr. McKenzie mentioned that Alliria plans to begin construction immediately, addressing the severe shortage of retirement accommodation in the region. With only 32 retirement beds available to serve a population of over 20,000 people, the new village offers a valuable solution for locals seeking to age in place without needing to leave the area. The village’s location adjacent to the racecourse will further enhance its appeal to the local community.
