Wallaroo Drive in Blackbutt has been earmarked for a UnitingCare Ageing facility which will comprise of 66 apartments across three buildings.

The complex will also have a centre for healthy ageing, village green, community room and consulting areas for visiting medical practitioners.

The development application was recently approved by the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) and Shellharbour City Council.

The works contract has gone out to tender and construction is set to start late 2015.

UnitingCare's director of independent living, Helen Wood said the region was a "fast growing community" with a vast number of people seeking accommodation that allows them to maintain their independence.

"We are excited to have the support of council and the JRPP as we embark upon this project to expand and enhance the services we provide in the Illawarra," she said.

The site is close to shopping, medical services, Shellharbour Hospital, transport options and a range of UnitingCare residential and community care services.

"The development has been designed with community and convenience at its heart, while behind the scenes residents will enjoy the benefits of our network of health, wellbeing and care support.

"Perhaps best of all, they'll have the security and peace of mind of a home where all the hard work of garden and building maintenance is taken care of," Ms Wood said.

UnitingCare Ageing will work with a team of architects, engineers and other consultants to finalise the finer details of the design.

The development will be located next door to its Elanora residential aged care service and the Lakeview Village in Blackbutt.

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