SEA Lake is undergoing a significant phase of growth for the first time in many years.
Several new developments have been approved for the town, making way for new land and housing opportunities.
The Mallee Development Group has started construction of five townhouses in Hannon Street.
Set to go on the market in April, the single-storey dwellings aim to revitalise the town and provide a modern housing alternative.
The project was spearheaded by a concerned group of residents who joined together to form a consortium after recognising a significant gap in the local housing market.
“We noticed there was a serious lack of quality housing available in Sea Lake,” local resident and shareholder Alison McClelland said.
The issue was further highlighted when it became clear that attracting employees to the town was challenging, due to a shortage of suitable accommodation.
“It’s been a big issue in trying to attract workers, and at times we’ve been desperate in trying to find suitable accommodation for employees,” Ms McClelland said, noting the issue became evident when the community-owned pub was looking for a manager.
She said Sea Lake’s ageing infrastructure meant many of the town’s existing houses required extensive renovations.
“We can’t attract people to the town if they have nowhere to live,” she said.
The new staged development aims to bring modern amenities and economic growth to the town.
Each townhouse features three-bedrooms, two bathrooms and a double carport.
Ms McClelland said the development had attracted interest, with one townhouse already sold prior to completion, further cementing the need for modern housing within the town.
The consortium is also utilising local construction companies and tradies, providing an economic boost for the region.
“It’s nice to see a new development in town,” Ms McClelland said.
“There have been a couple of new homes built in town in the last couple of years however, most new houses around Sea Lake have been built on farms.”
Meanwhile, a separate planning permit has been approved for a five-lot subdivision of land adjacent to the Calder Highway, where preliminary work has started to take place.
The Buloke Shire Council is also in the process of subdividing the former Sea Lake Primary School site.
The 2.4 acre site, at Sutcliff Street, will comprise nine residential lifestyle allotments.
The Buloke Shire Council said the land was transferred to them after the school’s closure and, being surplus to their needs, would help address the regional housing shortage.
