Wagga subdivision plans to grow Forest Hill by 200 homes

GROWTH: The empty land south of Elizabeth Avenue at Forest Hill has been eyed off for development, which could create an alternative to the popular northern suburbs. Picture: Daina Oliver

HUNDREDS of new homes could be heading for Forest Hill after a stalled development has started to pick up pace again.

Wakefield Ashurst Developments applied to the council for a residential subdivision estimated to cost $13.65 million, which promises 200 new houses.

A spokesman for company said they looked to expand the existing Brunslea Park estate south of Elizabeth Avenue in the next 18 to 24 months.

He said they intend to build on the community environment of the existing estate and create an all-inclusive neighbourhood.

"It will be a community-style development, incorporating green ways and running tracks. We are looking at revitalising the active travel link ... especially in the current scenario where people like a bit of space," he said.

The spokesman said they are working with a blank canvas with no roads, sewer and drainage services constructed yet.

But, he said this was positive as it would allow them to use local companies wherever possible to boost the city's economy.

Builder Wayne Carter said this was "a significant continuation" of the work that has been started in the suburb and will continue to meet the high demand for land.

He said if Wagga's population is to grow to 100,000 residents, it will need about 485 new houses each year, therefore this subdivision was a step in the right direction.

"Forest Hill has always had a brake on it because it appeared to be out of town, but that barrier has been broken because people are moving to places further out of town than Forest Hill," he said.

Committee 4 Wagga chief executive Alan Johnston said it was always encouraging when developers take these steps forward in an area that has capacity and "realistically, is not a whole lot different" to Wagga's northern suburbs.

"Growth in that area is part of the equation and time will tell with the expansion of community facilities. That can only be good for the new development, but also what is already out there," he said.

Remax real estate director David Skow said another 200 homes in Forest Hill was a big addition to what is already there.

He said it is creating an "excellent alternative" to the suburbs of Estella, Boorooma and Gobbagombalin.

"Wagga locals have this long-held perception that Forest Hill is that place all the way out there, which really isn't true," he said. "It has the advantage of being accessible to local services and your money seems to go a lot further because block prices go a lot cheaper."

Wakefield Ashurst Developments lodged its plans to Wagga council last week and awaits approval.

Article written by Daina Oliver

Originally published by Daily Advertiser Wagga Wagga