Bellburra: A new era of retirement living on the Beaches
Link here to view full article in The Tawny Frogmouth
A home is much more than the product of bricks and mortar – it’s a space for people to feel nurtured and safe so they can make the most out of every day. That’s a philosophy Allambie Heights Village Ltd. is taking to a new level with Bellburra, a highly anticipated retirement village soon to start construction at a coveted location on the Northern Beaches.
The inspiration for the 24-apartment development came from a demand for luxury housing where people could downsize but still have a sense of spaciousness, so they could accommodate visiting children and grandchildren. Importantly, Ciarán knew the apartments also needed to meet the future needs of residents as they age.
“Buildings should be embracing the person or the people who live there, rather than people having to chip away at walls, and try and expand when their needs change,” he says.
The construction of Bellburra marks an exciting new chapter for Allambie Heights Village Ltd., which has fostered a reputation for exemplary accommodation and care on the Northern Beaches since its first retirement village opened in 1966, followed by a residential aged care facility in 1996 and further development thereafter. Ciarán says having a dedicated team of compassionate people makes all the difference.
“We’ve got great longevity among our staff,” he says proudly. “I’ve been here for 18 years now as the CEO and I’ve got other staff who’ve been here for 22 years, 15 years, 10 years, 8 years and just a few years”.
And Bellburra’s best drawcard will undoubtedly be its location. Overlooking the stunning Manly Dam Reserve, it offers residents jaw-dropping vistas of bushland in one direction and the Sydney skyline from another angle.
“The natural setting is just amazing,” confirms Ciarán. “We’ve embraced a wonderful connection with nature, and we’ve taken every possible consideration for how we’re going to enhance nature around us. There are so many different plants, shrubs and trees that are being planted that are going to create food for the flora and the fauna that surround us, and I think that’s something special.”
Although it was once dubbed the Northern Beaches’ Best-Kept Secret due to its superb location, Allambie Heights Village Ltd. is now a well-known pillar of the community. Ciarán says Bellburra has been designed to help residents stay connected to the Beaches locations they love.
“These are going to be beautiful homes for people, and a beautiful village for the Community,” Ciarán says. “This is about building a Community where people can feel safe, invite their friends and families to stay over, and enjoy living together as good neighbours.”
As he talks about Bellburra, Ciarán’s passion for the project is palpable, and he’s made sure that his vision extends to everyone working on the development, which started construction in October 2023. It’s important to him that everyone involved holds the utmost respect for the homes they’re creating.
“I have reminded people to make everything you do personal, because it’s your parents, it’s your grandparents, it’s your great-grandparents, and it’s possibly you who can live in these homes and environments. So, think about what you’re going to need, what they’re going to need, and make it good for them.”
Visit www.bellburra.com.au for further information