Renovations of the disused residential care home in the 8.5ha Whiddon Easton Park in Glenfield, 36km southwest of Sydney's CBD, have begun as a result of a collaboration between private sector property holders, charities and public funding.
"At its peak, we hope to welcome 28 women to their new accommodation at our Easton Park campus, a safe, secure and supportive environment that offers a fresh start to those in need. As part of the next phase of this initiative, we’re exploring ways to provide training, reskilling, and employment opportunities, helping people rebuild their independence," Whiddon Group CEO Chris Mamarelis said.
"Together, over $200,000 in services and equipment have been contributed by generous partners, suppliers, and supporters, an incredible example of what can be achieved when community and corporate organisations unite."
Planning changes introduced by the NSW Government in late 2024 have allowed work on the site to begin without an extensive development application (DA) process, the exemption provided under “meanwhile use” planning controls. The "meanwhile use" policy re-purposes vacant or under-utilised properties into transitional housing accommodation.
The Not For Profit made the disused facility available, with Sydney-based developer Urban Property renovating the site pro-bono. Charity Housing All Australians is co-ordinating the project.
Urban Property manager Nick Gaudry told News Corp after hearing about the opportunity to convert the site, “it was an easy yes”.
“Our team rolled up their sleeves, and we reached out to our suppliers, many of whom jumped in to help with materials and labour,” he said.
The building is scheduled to open in October as part of the Women’s Community Shelters network.
