Work is well underway on a new social housing project in Ipswich that will provide 20 new homes for Queenslanders, while also supporting the building and construction jobs industry and showcasing the latest design standards.
Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said Bryant Qld Pty Ltd of Brisbane had been contracted to manage the construction of the five-storey complex, designed by Conrad Gargett architects, in the Ipswich central business district.
She said the complex was one of 20 demonstration projects that would showcase improvements to the design guidelines for social housing, developed by the Department of Housing and Public Works and the Office of the Queensland Government Architect.
“In December 2018, I announced a partnership between the Department of Housing and Public Works and the Queensland Government Architect to deliver 20 demonstration social housing projects featuring improved design guidelines, influenced by architects in the private sector,” Ms Howard said.
“Through our meetings with Ipswich City Council, we produced a responsive design that reflected council priorities, such as, unimpeded view corridors—which were met through the tower setbacks—and a viable street activation, which is being achieved through the multi-purpose space on the ground floor.
“The secured entrance foyer, awning and landscape, are all details that enhance the street address and complement the streetscape.
“Centrally located, this complex will offer 20 new social housing homes, and allow future residents to stay well-connected to the city centre and nearby health facilities and amenities.”
Ms Howard said the project would also support around 270 construction jobs during construction and is forecast for completion in November 2020.
“The Queensland Government is doing whatever it takes to continue to support jobs in the construction sector and create local business opportunities during the COVID-19 crisis,” said Ms Howard.
“Because we care about how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the lives of Queenslanders, we are committed to getting on with the job of building social housing properties such as this multi-level complex.
“In a practical sense, this investment means more local jobs for tradies in the building sector, from brickies to carpenters, painters to plasterers.”
Ms Howard said the complex would be popular with local social housing residents looking for somewhere new to live.
“That the construction of the complex is approximately 40 per cent complete [12 May 2020] and is on target to be completed within six months [November] is great news for local people in Ipswich needing a safe, secure and affordable place to live,” Ms Howard said.
“This modern complex will include 20 new social homes, of which 15 are one bedroom and five have two bedrooms and is conveniently located in Ipswich CBD, within easy walking distance to health facilities, support services, shops and public transport.
“Social housing properties like the ones being built in Ipswich are especially suitable for young families with children, seniors and people living with disabilities or injuries.
“Of those units, two will be fully accessible to assist people with mobility impairment.
“These apartments will include features such as wider doorways and halls as well as handrails, making them particularly suitable for people who mobilise in wheelchairs.”
Under the Queensland Government’s Housing Construction Jobs Program, $103 million has been committed to build 383 social housing properties in the Ipswich region over the five years to 2022.
