ANDREW Barr says the next phase of urban renewal in Canberra got underway this morning with the demolition of Dickson Flats kicking off the revitalisation of the entrance to our city.

“One of my Government’s priorities is the renewal of Northbourne Avenue,” Andrew said.

“Canberrans deserve a better main entrance and we now have the opportunity to turn Northbourne Avenue into a vibrant boulevard that welcomes visitors to the national capital.

“This process will also see the Government continue the largest renewal of our public housing stock in the ACT’s history. We will replace every public housing dwelling ‘roof for roof’, providing accommodation that is appropriate to the needs of contemporary public housing tenants, many of whom are among the most vulnerable in our community.

“Owen Flats, on the western side of Northbourne Avenue, are also now vacant and a tender for their demolition will soon be issued. It is anticipated that these buildings will be coming down by the end of the year.

“The sale of this ageing public housing stock is part of the Commonwealth’s Asset Recycling Initiative and we will receive a 15 per cent bonus on the sale of these properties. The total proceeds will be directly invested in cutting congestion and creating jobs through the light rail project.”