Robina’s prime retirement site adjoins proposed aged care

Perfect site for retirement development

Retirement living operators and developers are expected to be drawn to an approved Robina site, situated alongside a lot earmarked for an aged care facility, providing an opportunity for co-located senior accommodation and care services.

The 4,719sqm parcel being taken to market this week adjoins a site recently acquired by publicly listed Japara Healthcare, which has allocated bed places and will construct a 106 bed aged care facility.

It also sits adjacent to the Easy T Centre, anchored by Spano’s IGA and featuring 30 specialty stores, including a medical centre.

Knight Frank agents James Branch and Russell Allison are marketing the site at 46 Scottsdale Drive on behalf of Robina master developer Robina Group, through an offers to purchase campaign, closing on March 14.

Mr Allison, who is Knight Frank’s Head of Health, Aged Care and Retirement, says the prime infill site is approved under the Robina Central Planning Agreement for 88 two bedroom apartments.

He says while he anticipates the majority of enquiry will stem from the retirement living sector, residential apartment developers are also expected to show interest due to the site’s proximity to Robina Town Centre, hospitals, transport and other amenities.

“There’s a trend towards co-location of both retirement living accommodation and aged care services, with the idea that people can live in a mature, independent community and then advance to assisted living without having to move from their neighbourhood,” he said.

“This site offers the potential to contribute to such a continuum of care, as the adjoining site is owned by the reputable Japara Healthcare, and there is a multitude of retail, health and medical facilities within easy reach to support the needs of an ageing community.

“Robina has had a very strong 12 months of commercial sales and as a result there is a limited supply of approved, development-ready sites, particularly within an established, amenity-rich precinct with links to the motorway and public transport.”

Robina Group General Manager Hylton Slater says there is a shortfall of aged care and retirement living options in Robina, which continues to attract a large share of Gold Coast City’s ageing population.

“While lifestyle remains a key factor in where people choose to retire, convenience is king, and an increasing number of seniors are looking to live in an area that offers plenty of essential services, as well as entertainment and dining options, within easy reach,” he said.

“Robina is the ideal choice for this demographic, because it is a highly walkable community and, in addition to neighbourhood medical facilities, it is also home to an extensive health precinct including a public and private hospital.

“Robina is at the geographic centre of Gold Coast City, with easy access to the motorway, and it’s a truly beautiful place to live, with plenty of parklands, lakes and walkways.

“All of these factors also make Robina appealing to families, young couples and professionals, which equally opens the door for a residential property developer to take up the site and capitalise on its sought after location.”