The operator of the Glenvale Villas supported living community has requested an extension on the approval of its expansion in Toowoomba, 130km west of Brisbane.

The project manager and builder TLF Developments made the submission on behalf of Glenvale’s operators who are a partnership led by CEO Ron Hopkins.

Glenvale plans to build another seven two-bedroom units at the site, and was granted approval for the extension in 2016 by the Toowoomba Regional Council.

This approval is set to lapse later this month.

In a letter to council, Enhance Urban Planning, which is working with TLF on the project, said the operator would need until 2025 to commence work after originally intending to secure finance for the units and start construction earlier this year.

Prioritising developments in NSW and difficulties in finding finance due to COVID were cited as reasons for the delay.

“Around the time the approval was given, the proponent also received approval for a townhouse development in New South Wales,” the letter said.

“Based on financing and pre-sale commitments, construction of the NSW development was prioritised.

“Construction of the NSW development commenced in 2017 and was finalised in 2019.”

“The ability to secure finance was severely affected by the impacts of the current COVID-19 global pandemic given that reduced investor confidence was observed.”

“The largest impacts were observed in February and March 2020 and have continued throughout the year.”