Major 80-unit social housing development proposed by Access Community Housing in Westcourt

A six-storey social housing complex designed for one of Australia's fastest-growing homeless demographics has been proposed for Westcourt.

Not-for-profit Access Community Housing Company (ACHC) has submitted a development application for a social housing complex at 271 Gatton St in Westcourt,

Plans for an 80-unit social housing complex have been lodged with Cairns Regional Council as the region tackles its housing crisis through a major development in Westcourt.

The six-storey building, reaching 20.3m in height, will target seniors and single women over 55 when its built at 271 Gatton Street in Westcourt.

Not-for-profit Access Community Housing Company (ACHC) submitted a development application for the proposed building that will include 80 self-contained occupancy units, ranging from one-bedroom (60 units) to two-bedroom (20 units).

Access Community Housing CEO Aidan Lang.

ACHC chief executive Aidan Lang said the proposal’s scale reflected the need to build housing for disadvantaged individuals and families.

“Cairns is facing strong housing demand across social, affordable and private markets, with a significant social housing need,” he said.

“Older women are one of the fastest-growing cohorts experiencing homelessness, and developments like this help provide the long-term housing stability that allows people to age safely and remain connected to their community.”

“The location is well-placed to support seniors and single women over 55, with key services and community supports nearby including Meals on Wheels, the Cairns and District Senior Citizens Association, and various aged-care facilities.

“It is also close to shopping at DFO and sits on a public bus route, helping residents stay connected to everyday services and the broader community.”

The state housing department is also proposing a development featuring 21, two-bedroom units at Ascot Avenue in Westcourt.

The Gatton Street site, which is owned by council, is leased to Access Community Housing under a 30-year agreement to deliver social and affordable housing.

Plans include CCTV, landscaped communal outdoor spaces with shared barbeque facilities, a community garden, and the flexibility to incorporate a shared residents’ space and/or site office, subject to final approvals.

The proposal also allocates 75 on-site car parking spaces, including eight accessible spaces, plus 13 on-street parking spaces along Gatton Street for visitors.

Mr Lang said the applicaton would progress through the planning assessment process.

“The overall timing of the project will depend on securing funding, and we are currently exploring funding opportunities,” he said.

“Subject to approvals and funding confirmation, the intention is to move to detailed design and procurement as soon as possible after the DA process is completed.

“We will be in a clearer position to confirm construction timeframes once those steps are finalised.”

The state’s housing department is also proposing to build a separate 21-unit social housing complex on Ascot Avenue in Westcourt.

Construction for this development is planned to start late next year and be ready for people to move in by late 2027.

Originally published as Major 80-unit social housing development proposed by Access Community Housing in Westcourt