Developer $19 million ‘affordable housing’ apartment complex flagged for Tweed Heads

A $19 million unit complex targeting “essential workers including teachers, nurses and police” has been proposed for the Tweed. See what’s in store.

An artist impression of the complex, which would include two four-storey buildings. Picture: Raunik Architects.

A $19 million complex with 36-units targeting “essential workers including teachers, nurses, and police” has been flagged for a vacant lot in Tweed Heads South.

The project would see the units shared between two four-storey buildings on Shallow Bay Dr.

Keen to get the project greenlit, the developer has proposed removing an entire building – 12 units – from the proposal if it is initially refused.

Zone Planning Group director Darren Gibson states in planning documents the mix of one, two and three bedroom residences were “squarely aimed at an affordable housing market”.

The planned Tweed project. Picture: Raunik Architects.

The project would see 36 units shared between two four-storey buildings. Picture: Raunik Architects.

“The (developer) is in various discussions with community housing providers, the Department of Housing and other build-to-rent providers with a view to meeting the needs of essential workers including teachers, nurses and police,” he said.

A car park with 45 spots would be accessed via Shallow Bay Dr.

The driveway entrance would be about seven meters from the intersection to the entrance of Tweed Hub commercial centre.

A third of the 3400 square metre site would be landscaped with a communal open space between the buildings.

Five trees would be cut down, including three koala food trees – forest red gums.

The proposed project. Picture: Raunik Architects.

Mr Gibson states keeping the trees would result in a “significant underdevelopment of an important land resource”.

“One of the last remaining strategically located infill development sites that is ideally zoned and located to help address the housing supply and affordability crisis currently being experienced across the Shire,” he said.

The developer submitted a koala impact statement which determined the project “would not impact koalas or result in any significant ecological impact”.

A vacant lot in Tweed Heads could soon host the complex. Picture: Raunik Architects.

New native trees would be planted and “lead to a net benefit in terms of biodiversity outcomes”, Mr Gibson said.

It is currently on public exhibition and submissions can be made.