A $13.1 million development, which will provide affordable accommodation close to the city for key workers who work in essential services, was officially launched at Bowden on Friday, 26 June 2015.

The Nexus apartments consists of 42 units at Bowden with 26 long-term accommodation units owned by Unity Housing, and 16 units being sold to market through development partner, Build Tec.

Comprising 19 one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom apartments, the 26 homes were developed by Unity Housing in Bowden’s first key worker housing project with priority access for people with a connection to the local community either through living in the area or working in the surrounding districts.

Project Director Alicia Davidge said the State Government wants to encourage affordable homes being built close to the city or public transport with opportunities to walk and cycle around them.

“In the past few decades, an increasing number of people are being pushed further and further out. Urban sprawl brings with it the costs of building new infrastructure and the cost to the environment because of the car-dependent communities it creates.”

“And the project we’re celebrating is an important part of our plans for Bowden to be a vibrant and diverse community.”

“The State Government through Renewal SA has facilitated this project to provide housing for key workers — such as emergency services personnel, teachers and nurses — on moderate incomes who meet affordable housing criteria set by the Government.”

The Nexus also meets the Green Building Council of Australia’s 5 Star Green Star design requirements through ample natural light, large overhangs and healthy airflow centred around an open air communal space.

Unity’s affordable housing portfolio provides access to high quality, well located housing for people who find it challenging to afford the private market, but are not generally eligible for subsidised housing, including those that contribute to the health and social wellbeing of local communities such as police, fire and ambulance, health services, childcare workers, education and other community support services.

Tenants interested in applying for a Unity housing property should email Jo Maloney at [email protected].