Queens Walk social housing complex in Hobart to be expanded

A $24m development will provide 65 new social housing units at what was once one of Hobart’s most troubled housing complexes. SEE THE DESIGNS>>>

A $24m development will provide 65 new social housing units at what was once one of Hobart’s most troubled housing complexes.

Housing Minister Guy Barnett has announced the expansion of the Queens Walk social housing complex, previously known as Stainforth Court, at Cornelian Bay.

He said the government was working in partnership with Housing Choices Tasmania and a development application would be advertised by the Hobart City Council on Monday.

“This new development will provide an additional 65 homes for Tasmanians in need of safe, secure and stable housing, close to the city, transport and services,” Mr Barnett said.

“Density developments like this deliver a range of benefits for existing residents, including increased car parking, improved communal areas, more outdoor recreation space and updated infrastructure.

“The project is consistent with the Greater Hobart Plan, released last week which encourages infill development throughout the Greater Hobart region, which will result in more homes and more choices for Tasmanians.

“In optimising the land available at Queens Walk, and leveraging our local industry and partnership with Housing Choices, we can deliver even more stable and affordable accommodation for vulnerable Tasmanians.”

The former Stainforth Court had a chequered history, was the scene of a murder in 2011 with a reputation for crime and violence.

Cumulus Studio's renders of $24m housing redevelopment of Queens Walk near Cornelian Bay.

There was once a suggestion it be pulled down but former Housing Minister Cassy O’Connor revamped the complex in 2013 – its first renovation since it was built in 1954.

Mr Barnett said Housing Choices Tasmania had successfully managed the Queens Walk complex since December 2013 and had created “a strong and diverse community”.

He said the new units had been designed by local architects, Cumulus Studio.

“This $23.7m medium-density project increases housing diversity in our social housing stock while also providing economic benefits and local jobs during construction,” Mr Barnett said.

“This is a key role that our new housing authority, Homes Tasmania will play in increasing these types of partnerships and opportunities, leveraging its $3.5 billion asset base, subject to passage of legislation being debated by parliament.”

Cumulus Studio's renders of $24m housing redevelopment of Queens Walk near Cornelian Bay.

The proposed new units come as the Communities Tasmania housing dashboard recently showed that the number of Tasmanians waiting for public housing increased by 170 in the past 12 months.

The dashboard also showed the average wait for public housing had grown to 89.8 weeks in July this from 70.1 weeks a year ago.

However, it expected the wait to ease with around 1200 new long-term homes expected to be built by June 30, 2023.