Plans for failed Aitkenvale Youth Foyer site revealed

The plan for a suburban plot of land in Aitkenvale that was initially earmarked for a controversial 40 unit youth accommodation facility has been revealed.

Premises where the public housing will be constructed.

THE plan for a suburban plot of land in Aitkenvale that was initially earmarked for a controversial 40 unit youth accommodation facility has been revealed.

The Department of Housing and Public Works has confirmed it has come up with preliminary concept plans for the site at Elizabeth St.

Initially the site was proposed for a controversial five-storey 40-unit Youth Foyer but the plan was shelved after significant community backlash.

It was then decided that the two houses on the site, which was purchased for $1.1 million in December last year, would be turned into a two-storey “lower density social housing complex”.

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A Department spokesman said the new proposal was to build a two-storey complex with a total of 13 units; three two-bedroom units and 10 one-bedroom units including two homes for people with reduced mobility.

“In Townsville, there is a demand for accessible one-bedroom units,” he said.

“The department is continuing to consult with the community on the proposed development of social housing in Aitkenvale.

“Consultation has already started on the preliminary concept plans, and neighbours have provided their initial feedback.

“Once we have considered feedback, the department will be in a position to release draft designs in the coming weeks. We will continue to consult with the local residents to ensure what we build fits well in the neighbourhood.”

Demolition of the existing houses at Elizabeth St is expected to finish in mid-October.

Originally published as Plans for failed Aitkenvale Youth Foyer site revealed