Designed by
The Development of Alloura Waters
by John Mortensen
In 1987 a group of local businessmen and professional people joined together to incorporate a Company to develop a Retirement Village. Their specification for a desirable site included one that has plenty of sunshine in winter; therefore an open north facing aspect was required. Comfortable climate in the summertime was high on the list so an area cooled by nor’easters was sought.
Extensive studies of other Villages revealed that the site should be level.
It should be close to transport, shops, medical services and community amenities yet be just removed enough to ensure peace and quiet; to not suffer fumes and noise pollution from main road traffic.
Ideally there would be easy access to recreational pursuits outside the Village, which would ensure integration with the wider community.
This was high on our list because we recognised the benefits that flow from this interaction – they translate directly into better adjustment and wellbeing of the people fortunate to have access to such facilities.
Our search led us to Saratoga/Davistown and in 1988 Alloura Waters Pty Limited purchased around 20 acres of land from Davistown RSL Club.
The parcel formed part of the original holdings owned by the Club and was subdivided from the actual Club premises and bowling greens.
Zoning on the land allowed specifically for development of a Retirement Village with a potential for around 380 units and in 1990 consent was issued by Gosford City Council for the erection of the Village.
In November 1990 the Company opened the first three display units to the public for inspection.
Construction progressed and in June 1991 our first residents moved into their brand new unit in Stage 1 development of Alloura Waters.
Stage 2 followed and with all units being sold residents began moving in from May 1992.
Our official opening of Stage 3 was carried out by the Minister for Environment, Chris Hartcher, on 14 May 1993 and, although this stage was not completed until August, units were becoming occupied by new residents from May.
After the ceremony the Minister said to me that the Village seemed to have a great atmosphere: “The residents are so proud of it – the spirit that’s here and the friendliness really stand out.”
The ultimate size of Alloura Waters will be around 200 units/villas. Our philosophy is to work for the furtherance of that atmosphere identified by the Minister and to develop a low-density type Village, which maximises open space and privacy.
Thanks' to our archivist Lyn Kennedy