Development application submitted for social housing project in Devonport containing 30 units

With around 5000 Tasmanians on the social housing waitlist, a newly proposed project is hoped to help reduce that number. Where it will be and what it might look like.

A 3D render of what a proposed social housing project in Devonport could look like once complete. Picture: Supplied.

Devonport could soon have more social and affordable housing if the local council approves a proposed development.

Housing Choices Tasmania has submitted a development application with the Devonport City Council to build at 11 Fenton Street.

A 3D render of what a proposed social housing project in Devonport could look like once complete. Picture: Supplied.

“The proposal at 11 Fenton St, Devonport, is for a multi-residential social and affordable housing development, which will include 30 apartments comprising a mix of one and two-bedroom units designed to provide secure housing for those in need,” Housing Choices Tasmania Development Manager William Harkness said.

“The development has been designed by the award-winning Tasmanian architects Morrison & Breytenbach.

“Located in inner Devonport, the site offers excellent amenities, with easy access to services, schools, and shops, ensuring a highly walkable environment for future residents.

“The project will meet Liveable Housing Australia Silver standards with units designed for high energy efficiency, helping to minimise heating and cooling costs for residents.”

Mr Harkness said the housing development was much needed.

“Projects like this are crucial, with nearly 5000 Tasmanians currently on the social housing waitlist, and particularly high demand in the Devonport and North-West regions of Tasmania.

“We are working towards securing state and federal government funding to support this vital project.”

The development application for the project is up for public exhibition on the Devonport City Council website until Tuesday.

The proposal is not the only social housing project slated for the state’s northwest.

Larger-than-life penguin in the seaside town of Penguin, Tasmania, Australia Picture: Alamy

Homes Tasmania announced plans to rezone and subdivide the site of the old football ground at Penguin into 50 blocks for use as residential land.

However, some Penguin residents opposed the plan, and about 1100 people signed a petition against the social housing project.

Homes Tasmania said the community opposition resulted in the organisation rethinking the project.

“We are committed to delivering land where people can build homes to meet a range of needs, including those wanting to downsize from larger family homes or people wanting to buy their first home,” a spokesperson said.

“After extensive community consultation, we are now reviewing the design and intend to consult on a revised design in the new year.

“We will continue to keep the community updated on progress on the project, and information is also available on our website.”