18/10/02
Four new seniors' units have allowed several long-term residents to stay in their home town, Housing and Works Minister Tom Stephens announced today.
The three two-bedroom units and one one-bedroom unit were built by the Shire of Three Springs and the Department of Housing and Works under the Joint Venture Housing Program.
The units, which are adjacent to the Lady Brand Lodge for the Frail Aged and the North Midlands Health Service in Carter Street, will be opened tomorrow by Department of Housing and Works' Mid-West regional manager, Trevor Gregory.
"It is particularly pleasing that the units are housing long-term Three Springs residents," Mr Stephens said.
"The Government is very conscious of the need for seniors' accommodation throughout the State, especially in remote areas where this type of facility has been traditionally unavailable.
"Construction of this type grants seniors the opportunity to remain in their home town with comfort in their elderly years.
"It also means that family homes previously occupied by seniors who are moving into the new homes, are freed-up for more family accommodation.
"The new purpose-built accommodation for seniors better meets their lifestyle changes, with extra amenities such as grip rails, wider door frames to allow for wheel chair access throughout and the absence of steps.
"This $413,000 building project has also stimulated the region's local construction industry, with Geraldton builder PS Chester and Son undertaking the contract and finishing ahead of time."
The Shire of Three Springs contributed $40,000 towards the project, plus $16,500 for headworks and $26,238 for extra amenities including built-in robes, reverse cycle air-conditioning, landscaping to the rear yard and wider doors for all the units, which were designed by Perth-based architect Gregory Samson.
The site was a Crown Grant held in trust by the Lady Brand Lodge for Frail Aged, for the purpose of aged people's housing.
Minister's office: 9213 6500
