Dubbo branch UPA district manager Megan Whitney and Dubbo branch UPA chairman Lex Bramble turned the sod, where a 39-unit complex for independent seniors will be built.

The first 10 units in Oxley Village in Macquarie Street will be constructed south of the existing Bracken House aged-care facility and it is expected residents will move in by Christmas.

Mr Bramble said the new complex met a high demand for independent living for seniors in Dubbo.

“We could build three more new facilities like this and there would still be a need in Dubbo because of the ageing population and all the baby boomers reaching retirement together,” Mr Bramble said.

More than 50 prospective tenants have inquired about the new units in Oxley Village.

“We have 14 cottages at Bracken House and we have a huge waiting list for them,” Mr Bramble said.

“Being so close to town, buses and the Macquarie Club is a big bonus,” he said.

Southlands Civil won the contract for the pre-construction works on the 1.2-hectare site and local builders and tradesman have been clearing the block and building roads and retaining walls.

The construction tender is due to be announced at the end of July.

Oxley Village will contain 18 two-bedroom units, six one-bedroom units with a study, seven two-bedroom units plus a study, with larger two bedroom units with a study.

Each unit will have driveway space for an additional vehicle.

Mr Bramble said the units would be reasonably priced ranging from $220,000 to $300,000.

Saturday’s sod turning also coincided with a meeting of the UPA State board in Dubbo.

belinda.galloway@ruralpress.com