First stage in aged care centre expansion under way
MELBOURNE: Construction has started on an innovative $50m expansion of a major aged care development.
The first of two stages, to be called Kilvinton, will deliver more than 50 independent living residences across several low-rise buildings on the existing Anglicare site at 284 Castle Hill Rd and 411-415 and 417-419 Old Northern Rd, Castle Hill.
In total the redevelopment will eventually allow for up to 100 new residents to join the community which has been operating since the early 1960s, making it one of Australia’s oldest retirement living complexes.
Anglicare senior communities group executive Laurie Boxwell said the development was part of a greater 15 to 20 year masterplan which would improve the 48-hectare site, which hosts health and wellness centres, and cafes.
“This site is where it all began for us, when we purchased the historic Lober House in 1958 and began providing care for older community members who needed a hand,” Ms Boxwell said.
“Since then we have been fortunate enough to expand the villages and welcome residents who have lived independently, while being supported by dedicated teams who provide hospitality, health and wellbeing services, spiritual care and everyday support.
“All our services are designed to adapt as older Australians needs change and we look forward to welcoming new residents in 2027.”
A health centre, tech bar team, a physiotherapy pool, a village bus service, cafes and pastoral care team are other features planned for the development.
There are 700 residents living across the five villages on the Anglicare Castle Hill site, and the project is set to create more than 500 construction jobs.
Decode chief executive office Divya Mehta said the company welcomed the delivery of stage 1.
“Construction has begun on stage 1, and we look forward to delivering quality homes that residents can enjoy, connect in and be part of for years to come,” she said.