Exclusive: State Govt to consider aged care facility as part of Midland Railway Precinct use

THE State Government will consider an aged care facility for the Midland Railway Precinct as part of the mix of uses for the space.

Planning Minister Donna Faragher said the re-development of Midland was progressing well and the new activity in the area had capitalised on 15 years of government investment.

“More recently the opening of the new hospital in Midland and the Lloyd Street underpass and more than $54 million in private sector investment in the workshops precinct has provided new job, living and recreation opportunities for local residents,” she said.

Mrs Faragher said the broader Hills and Wheatbelt communities had also benefitted from the redevelopment.

Mrs Faragher said the sale of land around the historic workshop buildings was being opened, and being so close to the hospital in Midland offered the potential for an aged care facility as part of the mix.

City of Swan Community Care Services advisory committee president Ron Carey welcomed the news.

“While a high rise development in the Midland Railway Precinct had not been on our radar we would be very excited if this facility were built at that location,” he said.

“We are also aware of other sites in Midland being considered for facilities of this nature for elderly residents needing accommodation.”

Federal Government figures projected for elderly care in the East Metropolitan Region suggests 435 beds needed in 2021in the Shire of Kalamundam, which are not accounted for at this stage, and a further 1050 beds needed in the City of Swan by 2036.

There are currently 3.6 million people in Australia over the age of 65 years.

Swan Chamber of Commerce president Gerry Hanssen said anything that could be done to encourage inter-generational living arrangements would be welcomed.

“The suggestion for townhouses which can have grandparents, children and grandchildren in close proximity, should be applauded,” he said.

“Mixed use facilities that cater for all ages would offer the residents in the area a wonderful living situation.”

Minister for Health and member for Kalamunda John Day said there was no doubt the Midland Railway Precinct had the potential for aged care development.

“I note also that those expressions of interest for re-development of the former Swan Districts Hospital site have recently closed,” Mr Day said.

“This is another location offering excellent opportunities for aged care facilities.”

Aged Care Advocate in Kalamunda Iris Jones said she would welcome anything in the region that would offer elder care and housing options.

“On behalf of Lesmurdie and Districts Community Association I would support such an initiative.”