Disabled elderly housing is much-needed

I write in support of the proposed seniors living development planned for the corner of West Street and Morris Street, Umina.

I moved to the Peninsular four years ago to be nearer my family members following an early retirement on health grounds.

For many years I ran my own successful businesses but at 59 I suffer from Parkinsons Disease, rheumatoid arthritis, oesteo-arthritis and will shortly undergo reconstructive knee surgery.

My illness requires that I have a full-time carer, although I can still drive and get around periodically.

As my mobility decreases, my need to access facilities and services without a motor vehicle increases.

When I tried to buy a unit four years ago to meet my current and future needs, it was almost impossible to locate a unit to cater to my demographic - ie disabled and elderly.

Unlike many of the people protesting against the seniors living development, I have personally inspected the plans in the Hawkins Real Estate offices and believe this development will enhance the region and supply a much-needed housing type to satisfy the demand of the disabled and elderly.

It is clear that the developer for this project has spent a considerable amount of money to secure the right location near shops and services and has incorporated many disabled and elderly user-friendly features.

The Woy Woy Peninsula has one of the highest percentages of people over the age of 65 in the State.

These people need to be supported by allowing them to continue to live in this wonderful location by being able to secure housing that satisfies their needs into the future.

Surely more needs to be done to support developers willing to build projects that cater to the needs of the aging and disabled family members in our community.

The proposed development should be supported and applauded.

Paul King Blackwall