A SHORT supply of independent living for over 55’s in Bridgetown is causing many retirees to move to other towns, highlighting the shortfalls in affordable and age-appropriate housing options.
With more than 35 per cent of Bridgetown residents aged over 55 years, the demand for this style of property is increasing.
Harcourts Bridgetown Principals, father and son team John and Kendall Ranieri, believe there is an urgent need in Bridgetown for over 55’s housing, so as to allow this age group to remain in town.
“It is evident many of our older community members are leaving Bridgetown due to the shortage of a “stepping stone” property," Kendall Ranieri said.
"These properties are a downsize from their current home, such as the family farm or one to five acres, into something more manageable and close to amenities.
"Most of these over 55's are simply not ready or needing to move into “aged care” facilities.”
Seeing the need for this style of housing, Mr Ranieri and his father decided to consult the community to see exactly what they are looking for.
“The response was overwhelming,” Mr Ranieri said.
"First we put out a survey to ascertain any interest. From this it was made very clear that there is a great demand for “over 55’s Independent Living” housing options in the area.
"Next we held a community forum, with about 30 people showing up. It was again made very clear from this that Bridgetown residents have little opportunity in finding suitable “easy care” small block properties.
“Due to this shortage, many of the older members of our community have no option but to move to other towns. This has a negative effect on family, friends and the community as a whole and it can be a very stressful time for all involved,” Mr Ranieri said.
"Something needs to happen in this town very quickly to prevent the loss of these valued members of our community.
"Bridgetown’s only aged care facility, Geegelup, does an excellent job, but is at capacity with waiting lists to get in. And many of the over 55's are not needing to move into such high support housing just yet."
During the forum, a number of alternate housing options were discussed, such as small villa style 'lifestyle' complexes, Park Home developments and higher density small housing blocks close to town.
Mr Ranieri said these were all great options, but the geography of Bridgetown raised a number of issues when considering them and he believed the shire needed to take a long term approach to this issue.
"The need for higher density housing close to town, such as block sizes from 300sqm to 600sqm, would be an excellent option for many older residents who wish to build their own home," Mr Ranieri said.
"Park Home developments similar to a caravan park create a very affordable housing option and small villa style complexes close to town will also offer an affordable solution and provide a secure, easy care option for those wanting to downsize.
"But due to the geography of Bridgetown, finding suitable level sites close to town is difficult. Developers are constrained by the availability of sewerage and zonings."
Mr Ranieri said he believes the Shire needs to take a long term approach to this issue by allowing zoning densities to be increased in and around the immediate town site so as to promote the development of smaller lot subdivision.
Bridgetown-Greenbushes Shire President Tony Pratico agreed there was an issue with suitable accommodation for this age group and said the Shire was prepared to look at all potential building or subdivision submissions if and when they arise.
"The Shire is unable to identify land for this type of development on its own," Mr Pratico said. "But if someone brings it to our attention, then council will definitely look at it. It is a very easy process to go through and it is great to see that people have identified this as an issue.
"The scope for this is big. We know of these housing issues for this age group and the market tells us that there are limited properties available within our town site.
"Council have been lobbying the government to extend the sewerage in town, which is now happening. This is an ongoing process and is definitely a step in the right direction to assist with this issue. This is all a part of Council's strategic plan."
