Unity Housing launches at Henley South

Unity Housing's Henley Beach South residential development. Picture: City Collective

Planning permission has been granted for a major new $30 million social and affordable housing residential development in a prime beachside suburb – and building is set to begin early next year.  

The new 70-townhouse development, located in Henley Beach South, will support 270 jobs and is a partnership between the Marshall Liberal Government and community housing provider Unity Housing. 

The vacant State Government-owned land will be redeveloped to create new social housing for low-income South Australians, as well as new affordable and market housing. 

Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said the development was an example of the Marshall Liberal Government working with the housing sector to create new housing. 

“This exciting new Marshall Liberal Government and Unity Housing partnership is a fantastic example of how government and the community housing sector can work together to build new affordable and social housing – and this is our collective aim,” said Minister Lensink. 

“The Marshall Liberal Government’s new $550 million housing and homelessness strategy is underpinned by our commitment to deliver 1000 new affordable homes over the next five years to help more South Australians enter the housing market, and ensure our public housing is available for our most vulnerable. 

“Not only will this development help more South Australians get their foot in the door of homeownership, it is set to support 270 jobs, providing a much-needed boost for local trades at this time. 

“Located just a stone’s throw from pristine Henley Beach, shops and public transport, there is no doubt many South Australians would love to call this neighbourhood home.” 

The new development will replace old and outdated public housing flats, which were demolished in 2018. 
Under the agreement, Unity Housing will develop the site, including building social housing apartments targeted towards senior housing tenants. 

The redevelopment includes 22 affordable townhouses, 20 market sale townhouses and 28 social housing apartments. 
Unity Housing CEO Matthew Woodward said Unity Housing had worked with the community to create a concept for the site which would suit local needs. 

“The Unity Housing partnership with the State Government will provide much-needed social housing in an area many people don’t realise also has its challenges,” said Mr Woodward. 

“The development will provide housing for 70 families including our most vulnerable and the ageing, and at a time when jobs growth is essential for South Australia.

“The Henley Beach development is a core part of a wider $45m development program Unity Housing is currently delivering to provide more affordable housing for low income South Australians.”

The redevelopment will begin in early 2021 and is expected to be finished by 2023.

Unity Housing will now engage a builder via an EOI process.