Perth Voice Interactive

BAYSWATER city council is considering a $175 million redevelopment of its Mertome aged care village.

The concept plan includes four options, ranging from 257 to 396 apartments, over five or seven storeys.

It includes parking and community facilities such a clubhouse, and the option of a residential care facility.

At a briefing last month councillors favoured the 316-apartment option, a maximum of two blocks at seven storeys and an 80-bed RCF.

$22 million is required to fund the first stage.

The council has $9m from the aged persons home and is looking to fund the $13m shortfall.

Consultants have advised that proceeds from apartment sales should cover construction costs. Any loan or funding requirement would be self-supporting.

The Winifred Road home was established in 1972 and accommodates 213 people in 200 units. It was the first of its kind to be constructed by a council and pioneered the sector’s involvement in aged care.

Mertome’s tired facilities and pressing demand has prompted the redevelopment.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK