Canberra’s latest suburb, Whitlam, between Denman Prospect and William Hovell Drive, is now officially under construction.
The Molonglo Valley suburb’s first land release is planned for 2020, with an expected 600 homes expected to be built in 2021.
Act Minister for Housing and Suburban Development Yvette Berry said in a statement it was wonderful to be joined by Gough Whitlam’s family to turn the first sod for the suburb named in the former prime minister’s honour.
“Gough Whitlam was a one-of-a-kind person and prime minister, who helped Australia re-think the way we approach ideas relating to inequality and social justice. It is fitting he is being honoured in this way,” she said.
Minister Berry said the ACT Government would look to develop further plans for the suburb including a local primary school and shopping centre.
“Whitlam will take advantage of its beautiful natural landscape including Deep Creek, Kama Nature Reserve and natural ridges, as the first suburb in the valley north of the Molonglo River. These are all key attributes of the surrounding areas that will be a key environmental focus in developing this new Canberra suburb,” Minister Berry said.
She said mature trees have been retained where possible, with additional trees to be planted.
“Excess rock from the development will be stockpiled for the ACT Parks and Conservation Service and be used as habitat restoration along the Molonglo River for the vulnerable Pink-Tailed Worm-Lizard,” Minister Berry said.
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