Affordable housing plan on track for ‘Mullum’ rail corridor

A new affordable housing site has been earmarked for the land around Mullumbimby train station, the NSW Coalition government has confirmed.

In collaboration with Byron Shire Council, in Northern NSW, the agreement is said to build on the $30 million committed to “fast-track the supply of shovel-ready land” and deliver “more homes for families across regional NSW”.

State Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, Paul Toole, said the agreement identified land in the Mullumbimby Rail Corridor to deliver affordable housing and associated infrastructure like public spaces, car parks, and footpaths.

“We are getting on with the job of helping eliminate the housing pressures in the regions because we know it’s absolutely critical that every family has a roof over their heads,” Mr Toole said.

“This agreement builds on the $30 million the NSW Liberals and Nationals Government has committed to fast-track the supply of shovel-ready land and deliver more homes for families across regional NSW, in response to the Regional Housing Taskforce recommendations.

“We know housing is one of the biggest limiting factors in attracting workers and driving further growth in the regions, which is why we’re also providing $328 million to improve housing supply and ensure locals and key workers moving to the regions have a place to call home.”

The Mullumbimby (or ‘Mullum’ as the locals call it) announcement has come as campaigning by all parties intensifies in the lead-up to the state election on 25 March.

Transport asset land in focus

Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport, Rob Stokes, explained that the site was well placed for affordable housing, in proximity to public transport and the town centre. 

“Affordable housing is a major issue in the regions and we’re working hard to create more affordable housing options so people can get themselves into well-located, secure homes,” Mr Stokes said. 

“This Government has committed to 30 per cent affordable and diverse housing on Transport Asset Holding Entity of NSW (TAHE) sites, which is why we’re exploring options to deliver on this commitment through projects just like this in Mullumbimby.

“The renewal of the rail corridor also provides opportunities for supporting infrastructure such as car parking, public open spaces and community facilities.”

Long-term affordable housing is key

The plan has received support from all parties directly involved, though community input is still to be garnered, they have explained.

TAHE chief executive Benedicte Colin said the precinct was being delivered in partnership with Byron Shire Council and that community consultation and feedback will be integral to the development of a concept plan for the corridor.

“We’re looking forward to continuing our work with Byron Shire Council, and the local community, on the vision for this precinct over the coming months,” Ms Colin said.

“This proposal highlights TAHE’s ability to deliver innovative and ideally located housing models, while maintaining long-term ownership for the people of NSW.”

Mayor of Byron Shire Council, Michael Lyon, said he was pleased to be working with the state government on a plan for the TAHE-owned land around Mullumbimby station.

“The Mullumbimby Masterplan identified this land for long-term affordable housing and we look forward to collaborating with TAHE and engaging with our local community to develop a concept plan that is smart and works with the constraints of this area,” the mayor explained.

TAHE and the council will work together to develop a concept plan, which will be placed on public exhibition this year, they confirmed.

[Related: ‘Bite the bullet’ and invest in affordable housing: AHURI]