Council announces extra-care housing for older residents

Last updated: 30 August 2012 15:22

Portsmouth City Council is providing more extra care accommodation for older residents, with the announcement of a new scheme in Portsea.

In partnership with Housing 21, the former Caroline Lodge site will provide 43 beds in one and two bedroom self-contained apartments, each with their own kitchen and bathroom.

The four-storey block will also include a kitchen, residents’ dining room, lounge and a salon.

The new development replaces the care home that originally occupied the site, which has now been demolished. The extra care apartments are designed to enable older people to remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible, with care support on hand should they need it.

The development is due to open to residents in autumn 2013.

Andrew Lewis, Project Manager of the scheme for Portsmouth City Council, said: “Housing 21 and Portsmouth City Council are working together to provide extra care housing for older people in the city. This is one of a number of existing and planned extra care schemes in Portsmouth that enable older people to continue to live independently in their own homes.”

Leadbitter is delivering the £4.4 million scheme on behalf of elderly care and affordable housing provider Housing 21. The scheme is supported with investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

Julia Godwin, Development Programme Manager for Housing 21, added: "This new extra care scheme will be a valuable resource, both for residents and the local community.”

David Cook, Regional Director of Leadbitter’s Southern Construction and Housing division, said: “We are delighted to be working with Housing 21 and Portsmouth City Council on this project. Leadbitter has an excellent track record in delivering extra care schemes, and we will use our considerable expertise to build these modern, comfortable and high-quality homes for the elderly.”