The Miles Government has unveiled an ambitious initiative, lodging a proposal through its public development arm to develop several Build to Rent units at Lumina, within the Gold Coast’s Health and Knowledge Precinct.
Under this scheme, UBS Real Estate Nominees Australia Pty Limited has submitted a development application to Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) with the aim to supply essential homes for primarily frontline healthcare professionals and students in Lumina.
Following the submission, construction of the scheme is anticipated to start next year.
“Our Homes for Queenslanders plan is about utilising every tool available, including the optimal use of state-owned land, to boost housing supply.
“After reviving the powers of our public developer, previously curtailed under the LNP, we are poised to transform Lumina into a vibrant residential hub for our essential service providers and students.”
Meaghan Scanlon, Housing Minister and Member for Gaven
Last year, the government gained expressions of interest for the expansive 17,330 m² site, initially projecting the delivery of 500 homes. However, UBS has proposed a plan for 878 Build to Rent units, including 176 affordable homes in a mix of studio to three-bedroom apartments.
It is estimated to accommodate around 1,350 new residents nearby Griffith University and the university hospital, Gold Coast Private Hospital, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport Special School and Musgrave Hill State School, which are approximately a five- minute walk away.
The development is also aligned with Perkins Lane to the north to create a physical connection to the open space located to the north-west.
Designed by architecture firm Rothelowman, amenities within the plan include a landscaped plaza, retail spaces, cafes, and a fitness centre, all conveniently nearby existing public transport links.
The proposals aim to diversity the rental offering in both the precinct and the larger Southport area.
“The Lumina project is a crucial advancement towards meeting Queensland’s housing demands.
“By introducing 878 Build to Rent units, including a substantial portion dedicated to affordable housing, we are significantly enhancing the living conditions for our essential workers, providing them with quality, affordable options in the heart of the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct.”
Grace Grace, Queensland Minister for Development and Infrastructure
Four towers are strategically distributed across the site and its subdivisions – lots 1A and 1B – with the structures varying in height from nine to 13 storeys.
Central to the design of the scheme is a large communal open space among the towers, providing a vibrant heart for residents and visitors alike.
The internal pedestrian pathways link the communal spaces to the public thoroughfares, and seamlessly blend into the broader cityscape.
