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IRT to lodge State Significant Development Application for historic Woonona site on NSW South Coast

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The Wollongong-based Not For Profit’s plans to transform its coastal seniors living community in the city’s northern suburbs – and set a new benchmark for the sector in the Illawarra – have reached a key milestone.

IRT has now lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to redevelop the site, which previously housed IRT Woonona Retirement Village and IRT Woonona Aged Care, both built in the 1970s.

"To reflect this transformation, we're introducing a new name for the community - Woonona Place. It symbolises more than just a location, it represents a location, it represents belonging, connection and care in one of the region's most naturally stunning settings," said Interim IRT CEO Ross Gallagher. 

Woonona Place will feature:

  • 98 two- and three-bedroom indepenent living units across five buildings, connected by landscaped paths and green spaces;
  • a social and wellness centre featuribng a hydrotherapy pool, gym, and allied health consulting room to support active ageing
  • a clubhouse with a community kitchen, bar and library to foster connection and social engagement;
  • a refurbished Flame Tree Aged Care Centre 
  • restoration of the heritage chuch into a restaurant, expanding dining options for residents and the loal community.

IRT first announced redevelopment plans for its Woonona site in 2013, with services gradually wound down. After Wollongong City Council approved the plans in April 2024, both facilities were demolished, with only the rectory remaining. In February this year, IRT modified its plans for the SSDA after community consultation.

Partners on the project include Gardner Wetherill & Associates (concept architect), Calderflower Architects (lead architect), Arcadia Landscape Architecture (landscape design), Breathe Architecture (heritage church and pavilion design), Marchese Partners (interior design), MMJ Real Estate (town planning), and Artazan Property Group (SSDA project management).


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