Two-storey townhouses in Stirling: Hills Council backs Pomona Rd infill development but some residents aren’t happy
Double-storey townhouses just a short stroll from Stirling’s Main Street are under construction – but some residents fear higher-density living could change the picturesque town forever.
Adelaide Hills
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A Stirling infill development is the first cab off the rank in a series of small-scale housing projects planned for the Adelaide Hills.
Adelaide Hills Council has given its final stamp of approval for the construction of five single-storey and two double-storey townhouses at 21 Pomona Rd to be built on lots of about 500sq m.
The S and A Bell Pty Ltd development is a first of its kind for the region and follows recent controversy over proposed planning changes by the State Government.
Under the new code, expected to be approved by September, the Adelaide Hills could be opened up to more subdivision and development, including semi high-rises of up to six storeys.
The proposal has faced opposition by a large number of residents who worry infill developments could destroy the town’s “country feel”.
However, the council’s Director for Development and Regulatory Services, Marc Salver, said subdivisions had been a long time coming and urged locals to get on board.
“For the Adelaide Hills, that’s the first development of its kind as we’ve never had developments in more urban areas such as Stirling, Aldgate, and Bridgewater down to such a small size,” he said.
“(Infill developments) are the future as it will allow us to cater for a demographic that still wants to live in the Hills but need to downsize, or even a young family wanting to live in the area.
“The reality is that without infill land divisions, Adelaide Hills is not going to grow.
“There’s already another developer who is looking to do the same thing (at 20 Pomona Rd) and that application goes to the council assessment panel next week for consideration – that’s to create nine or 10 units, so it will be quite different to the townhouses.”
Developer Sebastian Bellosguardo said most of the initial ground work had been completed and construction on the first home would commence in early August.
He said each property would feature three bedrooms, entertaining courtyards, high ceilings and double-glazed windows.
Most importantly, each property will be connected to a sewer system to limit impact on Adelaide water supply.
“There’s a lot of people in Stirling but there aren’t a lot of opportunities for people approaching their retirement to downsize,” he said.
“We’ve found that they want to stay in the area desperately and these homes, because they are less maintenance and are well appointed, lets them downsize in something really luxurious without having to leave the Hills.”
Real Estate of South Australia president Brett Roenfeldt said the development would help fill a market gap by providing more affordable housing options. According to realestate.com.au, the median house price in Stirling is $846,250.
“Many residents in the Hills may see this as a step backwards from a lifestyle perspective, however, the argument is that – especially in Stirling and Crafers, but also Bridgewater and Aldgate – there’s huge demand from buyers seeking something that’s more affordable,” he said.
“So to have an option of a two-storey townhouse or single-storey dwelling, it creates an option.”