Proposal for Bundaberg West unit complex could increase stock of affordable housing

Two suburban Bundaberg homes could be turned into an affordable eight-unit complex if plans proposed to Bundaberg Regional Council get the tick.

The development application is for a single storey block of eight units with 12 car spaces in Bundaberg West.

A proposal to turn two suburban houses into an eight-unit development could increase affordable housing, according to the application.

A development application for 48-50 Crofton St, Bundaberg West, has been lodged with Bundaberg Regional Council.

Brisbane-based planning and development firm DTS lodged the application on behalf of owners Mark and Jacinth Haster on May 17 for the single-storey eight-unit block.

If approved, the development would see the two detached houses at 48 – 50 Crofton St, Bundaberg West converted into a single storey block of eight units with 12 car spaces.

The documentation states that the intention of the development is to “deliver affordable residential housing to the local area, providing an alternative housing choice to the predominant detached dwelling houses and larger units or townhouses in the suburb”.

It would include eight one-bedroom units, ranging in size from 59 sq m to 83 sq m and 12 car parks.

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The entire complex has a footprint of 760 sq m, with the units ranging in size from 59 sq m to 83 sq m.

The complex is proposed to have 78 sq m of communal space, in addition to a patio for each unit, which is less than the 25 per cent required as per the council’s Multi-Unit Residential Code.

The application states that despite the noncompliance with council guidelines, the development has sufficient private open space for each unit and is close to surrounding public open spaces and community facilities.

The application states the complex will blend into the existing streetscape, with units behind a landscaped perimeter.

DTS has sought to have the complex blend into the existing streetscape, with the units situated behind a landscaped perimeter providing screening and an attractive aspect when viewed from outside the property.

According to CoreLogic, Mark and Jacinth Haster own nine properties in Bundaberg including two units in Bargara and houses in Svensson Heights and Bundaberg West.

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The Hasters purchased the house at 48 Crofton St for $218,000 in 2008, followed by the neighbouring property at 50 Crofton St for $215,000 in 2010.

Both properties have been listed for rent since they were purchased and are located near the Friendly Society Private Hospital and Hinkler Central shopping centre.