Work begins on extra-care housing scheme

Published: 28-Mar-2017

£8.5m scheme meets demand for affordable supportive housing for older people

A development to provide much-needed housing for older people in Bury, Greater Manchester, has started on site this week following a ground-breaking ceremony.

Special guests from Bury Council and representatives from appointed contractor, Eric Wright Construction, met to mark the official start of the 71,000sq ft scheme, which comprises 60 purpose-built extra-care apartments for the over 55s.

The scheme, which is expected to be completed by October 2018, will be built on the council-owned former Haworth Close site at St Peters Road in Bury.

The self-contained one- and two-bed extra-care apartments will be complemented by communal and community facilities including a hair and beauty salon, a bistro, and gardens.

Councillor Rishi Shori, council leader, said: “We are extremely pleased to be commencing this important scheme which will provide much-needed additional high-quality extra-care facilities at affordable rent.

“Creating accommodation for eligible residents with their own front door and personal space, yet with access to care and support where needed, as well as opportunities through communal facilities and organised activity; this scheme will provide significant health and wellbeing benefits for its residents and the surrounding community.

John Wilson, managing director of Eric Wright Construction, said: “Extra care is a growing part of our portfolio as the demand for later life care services continues to rise nationally.

“Our purpose-designed scheme will provide greater choice for older people locally needing care, while enabling them to stay in their own home, retain independence, and enjoy on-site facilities to combat loneliness and isolation.”

As a ‘Considerate Constructor’, Eric Wright Construction is creating a number of employment opportunities for local people to be part of the build through work experience roles and apprenticeships. The team is also engaging with Bury College and other local education providers to encourage more young people into a career in construction.

This scheme is being supported by funding from the Homes and Communities Agency.

Carl Moore, head of home ownerships and supply at the agency, said: “These 60 homes show that, when we work with our partners, we can provide the homes of the right tenure to meet local needs.

“Our investment of £1.8m in Bury will make a real difference for older local people by helping ensure they have the homes they need.”

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