Earlier this year, a development application was submitted by Southern Cross Care (NSW and ACT) to change the use of its Regent St site from a residential aged care facility to a boarding house.
The boarding house was proposed as a solution to the current housing shortages for ‘seniors and displaced’ people from the area.
This proposal has, however, been met with opposition from residents living nearby.
A spokesperson from Southern Cross Care (NSW and ACT) said the meeting would be a chance to engage with the community.
“Southern Cross Care (NSW and ACT) acknowledges the recent community interest surrounding our development application to repurpose our former aged care home in Moama into affordable housing for older residents,” they said.
“We understand that any change within a neighbourhood, particularly one involving aged care and housing, can prompt questions, so we welcome the opportunity to engage openly with the community.
“This proposed development aims to bridge a critical gap in housing and support options for older people, and is a response to the growing need in the Riverina-Murray region.
“We encourage all interested residents to attend the meeting, ask questions and share their views.”
Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie said much of the community’s concerns pertained to the details included in the development application.
“We applaud the company for taking prompt action to arrange this meeting,” he said.
“Most of the concerns have arisen due to negative feelings about the term ‘boarding house’ and is exacerbated further by the fact that applications to operate such a facility must be lodged with the NSW Department of Justice.”
Southern Cross Care (NSW and ACT) is seeking certification in the aged care category of boarding houses, enabling it to provide assisted living services to older residents.
The proposed repurposing of the Regent St site would deliver much-needed affordable accommodation, bridging the gap between retirement living and full residential aged care.
The public meeting will be held at the Moama Football Netball Club pavilion on Monday, August 18, from 5.30pm.
All interested or concerned residents are encouraged to attend.
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