Critical housing project for northern NSW

Sargeant Planning recently held a design workshop with the local Council and NSW Department of Planning and Environment. This was a key step in planning for a major social housing precinct, complete with retail, educational and community facilities.

“Our planners are so pleased to be part of this project. It will deliver a solution to help with the social housing crisis affecting the region,” Director Boyd Sargeant said.

“Some clever ideas have been put forward to create a great new community. The proposal focuses on sustainability and responsive housing that meets future needs and seamlessly integrates with the surrounding urban development.”

“Watch this space as we move forward with the design development and planning process,” Boyd said.

“We have recognised skills across the eastern States and the Northern Territory. Key clients come to us for innovative support and project management.”

Regional New South Wales faces significant housing supply and affordability pressures. COVID-19 pandemic and flood emergencies have exacerbated these issues. As well as low rental vacancy rates, rapidly rising rental costs, and high house price growth.

A recent Anglicare review of 327 rental properties on the north coast of New South Wales found: 

• 3 (or <1%) individual properties were suitable for at least one household type living on income support payments without placing them in housing stress. 
• 23 (or 7%) individual properties were suitable for at least one household type living on minimum wage without placing them in housing stress. 

Through appropriate responsive design, Sargeant Planning can assist with the delivery of new communities to meet the needs of a growing population. Inclusive communities need to contain a diversity of housing types to address affordability and social objectives.