SHE’S been in the one house for over 24 years and Barbara Batman does not want to move.
A tenant of the Department of Housing, Barbara has dug her heels in and is petitioning other tenants and community members to protest the department’s decision to demolish a number of older style homes in Taree to make way for unit blocks.
“We were notified about two months ago and have had a few visits from department staff who have tried to convince me that we won’t be disadvantaged by being re-allocated another home.
“But so far they have offered me a home in Wingham – that’s too far away. I can’t understand why they would want to move us. My neighbours and I are quite happy where we are,” Barbara added.
“They tell us they are going to put units on these blocks which will house more people – I can’t live in one because I have a dog – and he’s my mate. This has been my home, I have raised my family here and it is heart wrenching to be told that, that’s it – we’re moving. I feel very sorry for my old neighbour,” she said.
Housing New South Wales said the decision is part of the Australian Government’s $2 billion Stimulus Plan which aims to deliver around 6500 new social housing homes in NSW and generate 37,000 jobs.
A Housing NSW spokesperson said: “There is a desperate need for local employment in Taree to help stimulate the local economy. There is also an acute need for affordable housing.”
“This massive boost of social housing will provide safe and secure accommodation for people suffering homelessness, for the frail elderly, for people with mobility issues and other people in housing need.”
The homes on Latham Avenue, Taree are proposed as a redevelopment site.
The Housing NSW spokesperson said: “This will boost the number of homes available for elderly people going from three homes to 15 units.”
“If these approvals are given, Housing NSW will start the planning process, which includes council and neighbour consultation.”
Barbara lives in Latham Avenue and her neighbours on either side have also been given notice they will be required to move. Barbara is currently on a disability pension and pays $130 for rent and water per fortnight.
Housing NSW confirmed sites in Bruntnell and Plummer Streets, Gill Avenue and Stokes Circuit have also been earmarked for demolition to make way for unit blocks.
A couple in Plummer Street in their late 80s, who have lived in the same house for 49 years, have expressed their concerns to Greater Taree City councillor Eddie Loftus.
The elderly couple has been given notice to leave by September 1, and while they have been offered another dwelling near the Bushland Tavern they are extremely distressed about the situation.
Housing NSW said they have relocation specialists who meet with residents to find another property that best meets the needs of the household.
“Housing NSW will also cover all removal costs of the residents, pay for the reconnection of electricity, gas, phone and internet as well as pay for three months mail redirection.”
And waive the rent for the first two weeks to help residents settle into their new home.
Housing NSW said residents who own pets will be catered for and said residents can request to stay in their local area, provided there is a suitable property available.
The spokesperson also said: “In many cases, residents will be offered an opportunity to move back to the address from where they have moved, once construction is complete and is appropriate for the tenant.”
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