Watpac To Build New Retirement Community In South Melbourne

Watpac Limited is ready to commence works in January on a new $61 million retirement community for Australian Unity in South Melbourne.

The commencement of work in 2017 comes as a result of the national construction and mining contracting group being awarded the contract in 2016 to take on the project on Albert Road, South Melbourne.

The project will deliver an 18-level residential tower comprising 83 purpose-designed apartments for retirement living.

Watpac Managing Director Martin Monro said the residential tower project will provide premium apartment living and a vibrant community for retirees close to all that Melbourne offers.

"This project was a welcomed addition to the Group’s workbook and we are delighted to be working with Australia Unity to deliver this residential tower,” Mr Monro said.

Watpac Construction Victoria State Manager Nick Pavlovic said their objective is to "deliver exceptional quality design and construction", however he said he can assure the South Melbourne locals that Watpac will work hard to cause minimal impact and disruption to nearby businesses.

However, impacts on everyday life is likely to occur. Mr Pavlovic said Watpac will work to build relationships with the local community so they can all work together and see the project through.

“We are delighted to have secured this project which is at the forefront of retirement living design and builds on our experience at delivering quality projects in busy precincts,” Mr Pavlovic said.

He said Watpac is looking forward to getting started on-site, with completion of the retirement community scheduled for October 2018.

Nationally Watpac is currently delivering projects with an end value of almost $3 billion including Brisbane’s $188 million Mary Lane project, Sydney’s $123 million York & George mixed-use development, Victoria’s $291 million New Schools PPP Project and the $63 million Central Adelaide residential development in Adelaide.