Prices soar in new living's Flemington Chase development

1/4/2000
Housing Minister Dr Kim Hames said today that East Redcliffe was a prime example of the State Government's policy to transform public housing areas into modern, desirable communities.
Dr Hames was speaking at the opening of the first stage of the Redcliffe Park Community Centre.
"The redevelopment of East Redcliffe, now known as Flemington Chase, has transformed a hotchpotch of tired public housing on big unkempt blocks into a sought-after community," he said.
"This area presented problems because it is so close to Perth airport, however it is also close to the city which is a distinct advantage."
Dr Hames said the Belmont City Council had played a major role in bringing the joint venture to fruition.
"The council facilitated the land swap which resulted in the former Ascot Park, which was cleared land, being exchanged for part of East Redcliffe which lay within the aircraft noise corridor.
"That East Redcliffe land has now been turned into a multi-purpose park."
Dr Hames said the prices for housing blocks in Flemington Chase had jumped by 40 per cent since the first sale.
"What was once an extremely derelict area is now a much sought after near city community," he said.
Through its $300 million New Living program, the Ministry of Housing's Landstart division is transforming areas previously heavily dominated by public housing into new communities, where the maximum amount of public housing is 12 per cent.
The Ministry of Housing owned 70 per cent of East Redcliffe, but when completed Flemington Chase will contain 12 per cent.
This was achieved through the demolition of some older housing, the refurbishment of others and the amalgamation of blocks to accommodate smaller, more modern units.
The Ministry of Housing contributed $250,000 towards the Community Centre in the new Redcliffe Park, as well as helping with site costs, establishing car parking areas, landscaping and reticulation.

Media contact: Caroline Lacy 9424 7450
MOH: Janet Wainwright, on 9222 4500