In March 1960, a ‘land bank’ was established to meet future needs. The purchases of land at Mitcham and Westbourne Park were agreed to by the Board at a cost of about £25,000. These were visionary decisions in keeping with the heritage of Resthaven. The Mitcham site, located on three acres of land at Hill Street, was chosen as the first to be developed.
Further, as part of these planned developments, the Board approved the addition of self-contained units for singles and married couples to be co-located at both sites. So that this new concept could be adequately financed, these units were ‘sponsored’, with the Board inviting prospective residents to financially contribute to their future unit. Three types of accommodation were offered at £600, £800 and £1,200. In a distinct break from past tradition, places were offered to men as well as women.
After 12 months of building works, Resthaven Mitcham was completed in December 1961, with residents moving in shortly thereafter.
Alongside 19 aged care beds, the home included sponsored units, which required a contribution towards capital costs upon taking up residence. With these units, married couples had a bedroom, lounge and bathroom, and singles had a bed-sit with their own shower and toilet. This configuration was complemented by communal areas such as lounge and dining rooms. Staff serviced the units each week, with residents only responsible for their personal laundry.
The following year, further land was purchased, and seven additional units were added at a cost of a little over £15,000.
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