Work begins on $9.68 million upgrades of Gilberton Housing Trust flats

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Image via SA Housing Trust

Work has begun on a major renovation of the SA Housing Trust flats at 61 Walkerville Terrace in Gilberton, with the outdated Bentzen Court site set for a full modernisation aimed at improving safety, amenity and liveability.

The $9.68 million upgrade will see the walk-up flat site renovated and redesigned, with the first stage of works now underway. This includes the demolition of outdated external laundries, before work begins on the first two buildings to be revamped.

The project was first announced last year by the state government, with plans to deliver safer, greener and more functional public housing that better integrates with the surrounding community.

As part of the overhaul, the site layout will be improved to increase visibility, enhance the overall appearance of the complex and create a safer environment for tenants and neighbours.

The new design will reduce concealed areas and improve sightlines across the site, making it harder for people who should not be there to loiter. Better lighting, upgraded fencing, new pathways and stronger security measures will also form part of the works.

Inside the units, improvements will include new kitchens and bathrooms, internal laundries and improved lighting. Landscaping will also be upgraded, with designs being carefully developed to improve safety while remaining considerate of nearby residents.

Tenant relocations are nearing completion, with residents supported to move into other suitable Housing Trust homes while the works take place.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Nick Champion said the project would deliver better outcomes for tenants and the wider neighbourhood.

“The Malinauskas Government is committed to delivering public housing that is safe, modern and well-integrated into the community.

“The outcome of the renovations will be a site that both tenants and neighbours will be proud of.

“This project has been shaped by Gilberton residents who have worked collaboratively with Government and the Housing Trust to deliver an outcome that will benefit the whole neighbourhood.”

Member for Adelaide Lucy Hood has continued to convene the Gilberton Working Residents Group, bringing the SA Housing Trust and local residents together throughout planning for the project.

“This upgrade is about improving safety, security and amenity in the area and bringing our community together to achieve a positive outcome.

“I established a working group to hear directly from residents and seeing works now underway is testament to their invaluable feedback.

“Thank you to locals, like Jan, for their advocacy and support as we deliver on our commitment.”

The works form part of the State Government’s broader program to renovate dated Housing Trust walk-up flats across South Australia, with a focus on making sites cleaner, safer and more modern.

For more go to, https://www.housing.sa.gov.au/public-housing/our-renovation-projects/bentzen-court-gilberton