The 18-hectare vacant block on the NSW South Coast has been earmarked for seniors housing development. Image: IRT.
A proposal hoping to keep elderly South Coast residents in “a place they know and love” has been amended, with the developers set to lodge official planning documents within weeks.
In August 2025, IRT Group released initial concept plans for a new seniors housing development in the NSW South Coast town of Moruya, as part of community consultation.
At the time, the in-progress plans featured diverse accommodation options, as well as amenities (such as a library, sauna and a green space) that would be open to the public.
CEO Ross Gallagher told Region that updates to the proposal followed consideration of issues raised by the community in recent months.
“The key thing was listening to feedback from the various local residents with a view that before we actually submit our masterplan [for approval], it’s very important we get feedback from the local community.”
If given the go-ahead, an 18-hectare site at 11 Spencer Street in Moruya would house the project.
The changes mean the residential home and apartment buildings will be capped at three or four storeys, while building orientation and setbacks have been adjusted.
Mr Gallagher said the development would ultimately house “roughly 473 estimated residents” across its independent living (spanning unit or apartment-style accommodation) and aged care facilities.
“Privacy was also listed as a little bit of an issue, so what we’re looking at trying to do as part of this master planning process is adjusting some of our building positions and setbacks,” he said.
“[This will] reduce overlooking neighbourhood homes outside of the facility.
“Landscaping and screening have also been strengthened along the boundaries [of the property].”
Changes have also been made to planned access points (along Spencer and Francis streets) and to the internal road layout.
He said IRT was also considering how it could use solar panels, rainwater harvesting and increased use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping in the development.
“Tree retention and outlook and [whether] it’s going to still fit in nicely with the local community and the local landscape [were also raised as concerns].
“What’s happened is we’ve taken that feedback on, and we will look at readjusting our master plan with a view of submitting that pretty soon, actually.”
Mr Gallagher says retirement and aged care facilities “shouldn’t exist in silos”, with the Moruya development set to be open for public visits and use. Photo: Keeli Dyson.
The new proposal has also locked in worker accommodation for the project, to house about 64 staff.
Mr Gallagher said the project’s timeline helped to give confidence in staff recruitment.
“We’re looking at developing this over a 10-year period. … It’s always a challenge with some of those regional areas.
“Hence why, I think for us, it’s really important that we do get that key worker accommodation in there. We can find accommodation for people, and incentivise people to come down south as well, because it’s a lovely spot.”
He also pointed to progress on the new Eurobodalla Regional Hospital – expected to have a handover date in early 2027 – as another draw to Moruya.
“That should bring some more activity and growth within the town, as well.”
“We are quite confident that we can find the workers in due course.”
As it is deemed to be a State Significant Development, it will be assessed by the NSW Planning Minister (rather than Eurobodalla Shire Council).
Mr Gallagher said the finalised planning proposal was expected to be lodged shortly. Construction is expected to start in early 2027, if the project is given the green light.
“The key thing for us is we want older people to be able to stay connected to a place they know and love,” he said.
“If we can keep locals in Moruya – if people are looking at downsizing or potentially coming from rural properties – that’s great.”
Anyone with questions about the proposed Moruya development can call 134 478, email [email protected] or visit IRT Group’s website.
