Residents in certain parts of Goonellabah would have received a letter in the last week from Landcom, the NSW government-owned land and property developer, providing clarity over the housing development at Bristol Circuit.

(A map of the Bristol Circuit site in Goonellabah. Image: Landcom)

The initial proposal for 44 Bristol Circuit was to provide 16 affordable rental townhouses for people on very low to moderate incomes that would address Lismore's housing crisis and lack of affordable rentals.

Following the community consultation phase held from mid-January to early February this year, the number of townhouses has not changed, but the criteria surrounding who will be renting the properties has.

The letter stated that "44 Bristol Circuit, Goonellabah, will provide affordable rental housing for local workers, enabling them to live close to their workplace.

"The homes will be available to key workers, including teachers, nurses and service industry employees."

The low to moderate-income wording has been removed.

"The development is for the provision of affordable housing where applicants must apply to the community housing provider and meet certain criteria, including local employment and income thresholds.

(An artist's impression of the initial layout of Bristol Circuit, Goonellabah. This may change following community consultation. Image: Landcom)

"As tenants for the proposed development will not be selected from the NSW Housing Register, there will be no social housing tenants."

A Landcom spokesperson told the Lismore App, "Landcom is continuing planning for 16 new affordable rental homes for 44 Bristol Circuit, Goonellabah, all dedicated to affordable rental housing.

"Our partnership with Lismore Council and a community housing provider will provide critical housing for local residents impacted by current housing crisis 

"We’re currently reviewing community and stakeholder feedback from a recent round of engagement, which will help shape the final designs of the project.

"The Development Application is expected to be submitted to Lismore Council later this year."