Work begins on independent and supported living scheme

Development work has started on a housing scheme in Norwich, Norfolk, that will deliver 127 social homes including specialist apartments for people aged 55 and over.

The project, which has an investment value of up to £40m, will see a former county council-owned brownfield site developed into a community of ‘affordable’ homes at social rent. It will provide 77 homes for people aged 55 and over who are eligible for care and support from Norfolk County Council, comprising 54 one-bedroom and 23 two-bedroom apartments.

Designed to help residents live independently, the properties will be wheelchair accessible and include access to onsite facilities, including a café, hairdresser, spa bathroom, guest suite and communal garden.

A further 22 supported living homes will be created for adults with physical disabilities, learning disabilities and autistic people. This will include 12 apartments and 10 bungalows, designed around residents’ individual needs and with onsite support provided by Places for People (PfP). The development will also deliver 28 family homes for social rent.

PfP will own and manage all 127 homes once completed, including providing onsite support for residents living in the supported accommodation.

The council is investing £5.5m in the project through its independent and supported living capital programmes. The remaining cost will be funded by PfP, with support from Homes England.

‘This is exactly what social housing should be about – creating high-quality homes that give people greater independence, security and the opportunity to thrive with support onsite for those who need it,’ said Christine Candlish, director of living plus at PfP

Norfolk County Council councillor Scott Hussey said: ‘The demolition of existing buildings on site marks an important milestone in the delivery of much-needed affordable and specialist housing for Norfolk residents. It is fantastic to see Norfolk County Council land being transformed into a development that will directly benefit some of our most vulnerable residents while also providing new family homes for the local community.

‘Once completed, this site will provide 127 high-quality homes, all at social rent, helping more people to live independently. The development will also support a more sustainable model of adult social care and is expected to deliver ongoing savings of around £1.2m each year through reducing demand for residential care.’