New housing model addresses projected undersupply
May 4th 2010
The projected chronic undersupply of housing for Tasmania’s ageing population will be alleviated with the launch today of a housing development that sets a new benchmark in accommodation for over 55s.
The new development, Verve, comprises 120 two-bedroom apartments to be sold for around $345,000 each. The development looks beyond the traditional options for people aged 55+ as it doesn’t align with any existing models for retirement living.
Verve will be managed by Tasmania’s respected aged care facility St Ann’s Homes.
“It’s estimated that Australia will require a further 135,000 housing units by 2011 to satisfy demand from an ageing baby boomer population, but the formal studies don’t tell us the form that housing needs to take,” St Ann’s CEO Susan Parr said.
“The fact is, the baby boomers have defined every decade they have lived through, and now that they are poised at retirement age, they will do it again.
“This ‘Me Generation’ will not happily go into a traditional retirement village. In fact, many of them will never retire, as they will not want to compromise their lifestyle.
“Verve has been specifically planned to meet the long-term needs of this generation.”
Verve includes the latest in environmental, social and technological thinking and design, and represents a very significant investment in the local community.
“This is a multi-million-dollar project that will provide ongoing employment in the Brighton municipality for many years,” Ms Parr said.
“In addition, with our vision to establish an authentic community we believe that Verve will establish an Australian benchmark for flexible, secure living.
“We will welcome residents who are working full-time, working part-time, or now retired. The days when entering a retirement village meant moving into an environment where no-one leaves for work each morning are gone.
“People have the right to enjoy an authentic community environment, especially if they are over the age of 55.”
Verve will welcome its first residents at the end of 2010 and are currently taking expressions of interest. A display site is now open at St Ann’s in Compton Downs. People interested in more information are invited to look at: www.vervecommunity.com.au.
For more information contact:
Becher Townshend
Font Public Relations
0418 370 661
