The Clutha District Council has turned property developer, yesterday unveiling its plan for 60 residential sections on an elevated site in north Balclutha.
Buyers will be able to register a "first right to purchase'' on their chosen section in coming weeks.
The 27ha development-ready site, bordered by Johnston Rd and McNeill St, offers 60 sites ranging in size from a 433sq m house section to a 3.33ha lifestyle block.
Prices start at $50,000 for a lower level house section.
Clutha District Council chief executive Steve Hill said the development of the land kept with the direction of the council's 10-year long-term plan.
The land is owned by the council and up until now has been used for grazing.
Mr Hill said the project would be "rates-neutral''.
Roads, footpaths, cycle and walkways, including reserve parkland, would be included in the development.
The project gave the council a chance to take a leadership role in driving the district's economy and be proactive about promoting growth.
"This is one way to address the accommodation shortfall that has been identified in Balclutha,'' Mr Hill said.
Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan said the subdivision development was a chance for individuals to join in the exciting momentum of growth in the area.
It addressed a growing need for accommodation throughout the district, he said.
The council will also look at the accommodation shortfall in Milton as part of the Community Plan process.
The Community Plan process had started for Milton, Waihola and Balclutha.
Mr Hill encouraged people to come along to open days to look at the land available.
The open days, to be held this month, will be an opportunity for those interested to view the sites and register a "first right to purchase'' for a small deposit of $1000.
The sections should be available for purchase by Christmas.
The council will also be speaking to real estate agents and builders about the project.
The subdivision lots have been drawn up and the next step is to issue tenders for construction work.
All of the sites available will have services to their boundaries including broadband.
The open days will be held on Saturday, June 25, Sunday, June 26, and Wednesday, June 29.samuel.white@odt.co.nz
