THE ACT Government is preparing to lodge an application for a Territory Plan Variation that, if approved, will allow residential development on the former Downer Club/Observatory and Salvation Army sites.

Executive Director Policy, Projects and Legislation, Louise Gilding, said that the sites between Hawdon Place and Rosevear Place – provided opportunity for people to live close to the centre of Dickson.

“Development will markedly improve the public realm and provide an added sense of community for the whole area,” Louise said.

“The sites will provide new housing in the heart of Dickson, renewing an area where community and commercial facilities will continue operating.

“The precinct is a hub for community facilities and greatly valued, particularly by residents of the inner north. The proposed amendment to the Territory Plan would not change current development controls, and importantly would not affect the existing community facilities in the area.

Future development could include senior citizen facilities, and social, community and affordable housing.

Preliminary planning is for up to 200 residences with heights of two to three storeys, compatible with existing development in the area.

An information leaflet will be distributed to all Dickson and Downer residents. The community will soon be able to comment formally on the proposed Territory Plan Variation through the websites environment.act.gov.au and planning.act.gov.au