Long-term residents of two Paddington boarding houses have been displaced after the properties were sold to a developer, ending decades of affordable communal living.
Background and Context
For over 20 years, Jeff Elliott lived in a modest studio inside a Paddington boarding house on Selwyn Street. He and 31 others formed a close-knit, low-income community that offered more than shelter — it provided social connection, mutual support, and stability.
In early 2025, both the Selwyn Street boarding houses were sold to LFD Developments, who plan to replace the ageing properties with four new luxury homes. Most residents, including Mr Elliott’s long-time companions, were relocated with little time to say goodbye, leaving behind decades of shared memories.
The City of Sydney had initially rejected the developer’s application to redevelop the site. However, LFD Developments is now seeking to overturn the decision at a hearing in the NSW Land and Environment Court, scheduled for 8 May.
Photo Credit: Pexels
Loss of Affordable Housing in Paddington
The sale has left residents scrambling to find new accommodation. Mr Elliott, a 59-year-old postal worker, continues to search for a place near his early-shift job, as housing affordability in the inner city remains out of reach.
Homes NSW has assisted with relocating tenants, but ongoing housing pressure has stretched resources thin. According to the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre, up to 2,500 people seek support each year — 80 per cent of them either homeless or at risk.
Elaine Macnish, the centre’s chief executive, noted a troubling trend: older boarding houses are being vacated, upgraded, and re-let at higher prices targeting younger renters. She stressed the critical role that traditional boarding houses still play in housing vulnerable populations.
Boarding House Alternatives Shrinking
As more boarding houses across Sydney are redeveloped or rebranded, the pipeline of affordable, communal housing options continues to shrink. Community advocates argue these residences meet a vital demand that social housing cannot always address.
Despite sometimes being below modern standards, many residents prefer their independence and reject institutionalised social housing options. Boarding houses remain one of the few low-barrier entry points for stable accommodation — especially for single men like Mr Elliott.
Photo Credit: Pexels
Community Sentiment in Paddington
Locals have expressed disappointment and frustration over the displacement. Up to 30 neighbours have launched an outreach project to assist former residents with food, furniture, transport, and social support.
Online reactions have varied. Some users empathised with Mr Elliott’s loss, calling for the protection of heritage boarding houses and questioning the value of luxury developments in established neighbourhoods. Others pointed to the legal rights of owners to sell and the lack of long-term security in rental arrangements.
Next Steps and Legal Proceedings
The next major development is the Land and Environment Court hearing on 8 May, where the developer will seek approval to proceed with the housing project. Until then, residents like Mr Elliott continue to wait, displaced and uncertain about their futures.
The Paddington case highlights broader housing issues across New South Wales — including the shrinking availability of low-cost options and growing community calls to protect remaining affordable dwellings.
Published 22-Mar-2025
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