Green light for retirement facility expansion

Mayor says community identified a need for more aged care facilities in the area.

Blackbutt and Benarkin Aged Care Association will build four additional units. Picture: Bev Lacey

BLACKBUTT will soon be better equipped to accommodate for its older residents.

Blackbutt and Benarkin Aged Care Association was granted South Burnett Regional Council approval to build four additional units, during the council meeting on Wednesday.

The new buildings at the Hart St retirement facility will be constructed in two stages.

Units five and six will be built during the first stage, and units seven and eight will be constructed during the second stage.

Mayor Keith Campbell said the project had been in consultation for some time.

"The community sensed the need for aged care facilities within the Blackbutt area,” he said.

"It continues to be a popular spot for people who move away from locations on the (coast) and come out to more rural-type settings.”

Material change of use for lots six and 30 on Hart St will be completed and maintained in accordance to council-approved plans.

Each dwelling will be provided with external clothes drying facilities within the nominated open private space areas, away from view of the public street.

Each additional unit will be provided with a letterbox and a minimum of one carpark per unit.