An application to build a 93-bed aged care facility in Castlemaine will go before Mount Alexander Shire Council this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The aged care facility is proposed for a site on Maldon Road in McKenzie Hill and, if approved, will consist of a single-storey building with a 44-space car park.
The facility would provide low and high-level care to people who are unable to live independently.
The report to the council says the lodging rooms would vary in size and include space for a bed, a sitting area and an en suite bathroom.
Some would be larger, with a separate sitting area, to provide more space or the room for couples to live together.
The rooms would have no kitchen facilities, with all meals provided in communal dining areas.
Map shows location of proposed development; story continues below
The proposed facility would also include several lounge rooms, activity rooms, meeting rooms, coffee shop, a theatre space, a hairdresser and an internal courtyard.
A 90-kilowatt solar system would be installed on the roof.
The report to council recommends it issue a planning permit.
"The application on the subject site for a residential aged care facility with 93 rooms for ageing persons will provide for the growing sector of the population that is in need of specialist aged care and ensure that they have appropriate access to this type of housing within their community," the report said.
More local news: Lifestyle lots prove popular among property buyers
The report notes Castlemaine and Mount Alexander Shire have a higher proportion of older residents than the state and national averages.
It also says the facility will provide employment and benefit the local economy.
The proposed location is close to the town centre and other services and amenities, the report says, making it an appropriate site for an aged care facility.
The report also says the proposed design "appropriately integrates" with the existing streetscape.
Mount Alexander Shire councillors will consider the application on Tuesday, September 15 at the ordinary meeting of council.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
