New North urban renewal project ends after refurbishing more than 2600 homes

AFTER the refurbishment of more than 2600 homes, the State Government has announced the end of its New North urban renewal project.

Public housing in Girrawheen, Koondoola, Balga and Westminster was redeveloped over 18 years.

More than 1400 properties were refurbished and sold, about 1250 done up and retained as public rentals and 290 residential lots developed over 18 years.

Housing Minister Brendan Grylls said the Government’s urban renewal program was designed to create more attractive living, reduce public housing density and provide home ownership opportunities.

“The New North project has been one of the largest and most successful projects of its kind ever undertaken in Australia,” he said.

“It has been an incredible achievement and I congratulate everyone who has played a part in its success over the past 18 years.”

New North was launched in 1998 and won the UDIA Award for Excellence for urban renewal in 1998, 2001 and 2006.

McCusker Holdings and Satterley Property Group managed the project.

“The New North has been a model example of cooperation between the Housing Authority, the private sector and the community,” Mr Grylls said.

“Life for the residents of the New North is immeasurably better as a result, with thousands now experiencing the joys and satisfaction of home ownership in some of Perth’s most well-located suburbs.”

New North has again been entered in the UDIA Awards this year.

The Government’s urban renewal program started in 1995 in Kwinana and Lockridge before including South Hedland, Queens Park, Langford, Coolbellup, Hamilton Hill, Armadale and Karawara.