In a significant move to tackle the region's housing shortage, Kiama's former council works depot is set to be transformed into a vibrant new community featuring 450 homes. The 5.2-hectare site, which has served as the council's operational hub for decades, is now poised to become a cornerstone of the area's residential landscape.
Prime Coastal Location Gets New Lease on Life
The strategically located land at 121B Shoalhaven Street represents one of the most substantial development opportunities in recent Kiama history. Having outgrown its original purpose, the depot site offers unparalleled potential for residential regeneration in the heart of this popular coastal community.
Comprehensive Development Proposal Takes Shape
The ambitious plan includes a diverse mix of housing options designed to cater to various demographics. The proposal features:
- Detached houses for families seeking space and privacy
- Modern townhouses for downsizers and professionals
- Low-rise apartment buildings offering affordable alternatives
- Significant green spaces and community facilities
Addressing the Housing Crisis Head-On
This development comes at a critical time for the Illawarra region, where housing availability has reached crisis levels. The 450 new dwellings represent a substantial injection of housing stock that could help ease pressure on the local market and provide more options for both existing residents and newcomers to the area.
Strategic Land Use Benefits Community
Kiama Municipal Council's decision to repurpose this underutilised council asset demonstrates innovative thinking in municipal planning. Rather than maintaining outdated infrastructure, the council is leveraging its land holdings to deliver tangible community benefits through increased housing supply and potential financial returns for ratepayers.
What This Means for Kiama Residents
The transformation of the depot site promises multiple advantages for the local community:
- Economic stimulation through construction activity and new resident spending
- Increased housing diversity catering to different life stages and budgets
- Better utilisation of prime land close to amenities and transport
- Potential improvements to local infrastructure and services
As the project moves through the planning stages, it represents a bold step forward in addressing one of the region's most pressing challenges while breathing new life into a key piece of Kiama real estate.
