‘Upper class’ housing plan

By Kelly Yates
A DEVELOPER who plans to provide “upper class motel style living at an affordable price” in Narre Warren South says his proposed complex aims to combat the housing crisis in Casey.
Peter Kuepers told the News the land, located at 38-40 Shrives Road, was ideal for the proposed development of 112 managed apartments because of its low impact on surrounding houses and its closeness to amenities such as the railway station and shopping precinct.
Initially, Mr Kuepers put forward the application to Casey Council for a 150-unit rooming house, yet later amended it to 112 managed apartments that would be staffed by an on-site manager.
He hopes to target single people, workers, pensioners and students in need of affordable accommodation.
“Each room will offer clean accommodation with a kitchen and bathroom for about $150 a week,” he said.
He said many local residents were confused about the privately run development.
“One man is circulating some letters around the place with false information,” he said.
“There is a need for this in the City of Casey. Honestly, if I built 500 rooms I’d fill them in less than a month.”
This development is the first of its kind in Casey, according to Mr Kuepers.
Several Narre Warren South residents are opposing the project, with Casey council receiving 60 objections to the proposed project.
Dianne Wearne, who is objecting to the development, said she thought the project was a “joke” when she was told about it by a neighbour last week.
“I was devastated when I heard the news,” she said.
“It won’t fit in the area as it’s too close to residential houses and families.”
Fellow resident Nicole Boughdady, who lives along Halcyon Way, said she was also objecting to the project with concerns about personal safety and social issues.
“It doesn’t belong here. It will also devalue our properties. Some of the houses around here are worth up to a $1 million,” she said.
Ms Boughdady and her family have been living in the area for eight years.
Casey planning manager Duncan Turner said a public notice had been erected on the site, with adjoining home owners also being advised by mail.
“The application will proceed to the planning committee for a decision in the new year, most likely in late January,” Mr Turner said.
The council will consider all objections received up until a decision is made.
The application material and plans are available for review on the website at www.casey.vic.gov.au