In the heart of Highgate, just northwest of Perth’s bustling central business district, a remarkable transformation is taking shape on a site that once symbolized urban decay. For years, the location housed Stirling Towers, a public housing complex plagued by social challenges like drug issues and vandalism, ultimately left abandoned a decade ago. Today, this forgotten plot of land is being reborn through an innovative build-to-rent (BtR) social housing project, marking a historic first for Western Australia. This initiative not only promises to deliver much-needed affordable and social accommodations but also serves as a beacon of hope for revitalizing neglected urban spaces. By turning a problematic past into a promising future, the development showcases how strategic partnerships and forward-thinking models can address pressing housing shortages in proximity to key city amenities, ensuring accessibility to jobs and services for diverse communities.
A New Chapter for Urban Renewal
The journey of this site from dereliction to development began with the demolition of the old Stirling Towers, a structure originally built in 1971 and later expanded, which had fallen into disrepair by the time its last tenants were relocated. The first stage of redevelopment concluded recently, clearing the way for a modern residential complex. Now in its second phase, the project is constructing a four-story building that will house 109 apartments, with a significant portion—78 units—dedicated to social housing. Additionally, 22 units will offer affordable rentals, while 7 are tailored for specialist disability accommodation, complemented by two units for onsite assistance. Managed by Community Housing Limited, with design by Architectus and development led by Tetris Capital and Perkins (WA), this public-private partnership operates under a 52-year ground lease on state-owned land. This collaborative approach exemplifies a shift toward blending private investment with social responsibility to create sustainable living environments near Perth’s urban core.
Innovative Funding and Future Implications
The financial backbone of this pioneering BtR project reflects a robust commitment from both state and federal levels to tackle housing diversity and affordability challenges. With over $30 million invested by the state government and an additional $46 million from the Federal Social Housing Accelerator Payment fund, the initiative underscores a shared resolve to address urban housing crises. Positioned within the state’s Housing Diversity Pipeline, the development targets short- to medium-term delivery of social housing on underutilized sites. Beyond immediate impact, this model of public-private collaboration sets a precedent for future projects across the region, offering a scalable solution to meet growing demand. The emphasis on mixed-use accommodations, including provisions for disability-specific needs, highlights a nuanced understanding of community requirements. Reflecting on the past, the transformation of this Highgate site from a symbol of neglect to a renewed community asset demonstrates that targeted investments can turn urban challenges into lasting opportunities for inclusive growth.
