Opening of 22 seniors' villas in Edgewater

16/8/95

Housing Minister Kevin Prince today opened 22 villa units for seniors in Edgewater.

The units, in Harvest Loop, were built under a joint venture housing program between Homeswest and the Sisters of St Brigid's Convent of Mercy at a cost of more than $951,000.

They were built on Crown land vested with the Sisters from the Department of Land Administration.

Mr Prince paid special tribute to the design and construction of the units during the official opening ceremony.

"Edgewater Mercy Villas is a development of which the Sisters and Homeswest can be extremely proud," the Minister said.

"Congratulations must go to architect Max Feleer of Inter 5 and building company Grand International, of Osborne Park.

"The units are not only attractively designed but they are also practical, making the lives of those who live in them more comfortable and safe."

It is the third joint housing project between the Sisters of Mercy and Homeswest.

A 12-unit complex was built in Lesmurdie in 1982-83 with another 10 units constructed in the same area in 1985-86.

Mr Prince praised the efficient and cost-effective approach adopted by the Sisters of Mercy in locating the units near to their established aged hostel.

He said the close proximity would allow residents of the villas to share services and facilities provided at the hostel.

The joint venture housing program has operated since 1982 and more than 1,050 units of accommodation have been built throughout Western Australia under the scheme.

It is open to local government authorities, community groups, charitable bodies, non-profit organisations and incorporated bodies.

Mr Prince said about 70 per cent of joint ventures are conducted with community groups with the remainder completed in conjunction with local government.

Media contact: Peter Harris 366 0300