A development application has been lodged for purpose built senior apartments north of Brisbane

A select group of people, at risk of “falling through the cracks”, could be saved from homelessness by a new apartment block planned for Redcliffe.

If given the tick of approval by Moreton Bay Regional Council, a seven-storey, 82-apartment development in the heart of Redcliffe would provide affordable accommodation for those over 55.

Brisbane Housing Company (BHC) lodged the development application for the project at 99 Sutton Street, with each apartment having one bedroom and a multipurpose room, in a bid to help older people downsize into smaller and accessible homes.

All apartments will be for people aged 55 years and older only.

The multipurpose room is included to provide space for hobbies, storage and occasional overnight visits from grandchildren, for example.

All apartments will be provided as long term social and affordable rental accommodation, there is no option to purchase an apartment.

If approved, construction would start next year creating 90 jobs during the 15-month build with the first residents moving in during 2024.

BHC has lodged a development application for a 82 bedroom apartment in the heart of Redcliffe. Picture: Contributed

BHC Chief Executive Officer Rebecca Oelkers said strong demand existed for social and affordable housing in Redcliffe, with more than 600 households waiting on the social housing register for a one-bedroom home, and almost 50 per cent of renters living with housing stress in the private rental market.

“Older people have been identified as the target demographic for the complex to create a community where people can downsize and age in place, with the peace of mind that housing stability and affordability offers,” Ms Oelkers said.

“Many older public housing residents, who have lived in the community for decades, are living alone in larger public housing properties and are in need of accessible, smaller homes as they get older.

“The homes they vacate can then be offered to larger households waiting for assistance through the social housing register.

“Similarly, older people who are living in the local rental market will be affected by increasing rental costs and decreasing housing stability.

“Older women are the fastest growing group of people at risk of homeless, and this development will provide much-needed assistance for older women in particular, who often fall through the cracks of the housing assistance system.”

Ms Oelkers said the development offered excellent access to public transport with bus stops on Anzac Ave located a short walk from the development, providing connections to the rail network at Kippa Ring station.

“The adjacent Sutton Street shopping precinct includes the Bluewater Square Shopping Mall with a range of shops and services including a supermarket, medical centre and post office,” Ms Oelkers said.

“Humpybong Park is close to the development and offers a high level of amenity including walking paths, lakes and a swimming pool.

“The Settlement Cove Lagoon, with community swimming pools, BBQ areas and a playground is also in proximity.”