Over £12 million is set to be invested in the first new homes to be built in Stockbridge Village for a decade.
Villages Housing Association is moving forward with proposals for 90 new properties including 64 extra care homes and 26 bungalows at The Withens development.
The scheme, on land next to the older people’s apartments at Roughsedge House, will see the first new build homes on the Stockbridge estate since 2007.
It will bring much needed supported housing for some of the area’s elderly and vulnerable tenants.
Knowsley Council says it expects a significant rise in the numbers of older people living in the area by 2021, with an increase of more than 1,000 residents aged 90 or above.
The Knowsley Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy says the area is seeing an increase in dementia due to its aging population.
Council bosses believe more specialist accommodation like The Withens will be crucial in ensuring elderly and vulnerable residents can access the support they need.
Mark Butterworth, Knowsley Council’s assistant chief executive, said: “I’m delighted that the extra care scheme in Stockbridge Village is progressing, as it will provide high quality accommodation to meet both demand and the needs of our residents.
“This latest development will complement a number of other high quality extra care schemes in Halewood, Huyton, and Kirkby, and a further development is also nearing completion in Prescot.
“This latest development supports the Council’s efforts to ensure that services, choice and independence is available for older people.
“The new homes and bungalows being produced across Knowsley will provide residents with the benefits of personal space and independence, whilst also having the reassurance and sense of community that comes with shared spaces and assistance when needed.”
Villages’ commitment to build The Withens scheme comes despite housing associations across the country putting the development of thousands of supported housing properties on hold due to uncertainty over government funding.
Designed in partnership with local residents, businesses and stakeholders, the scheme can cater for vulnerable residents with a variety of needs, with adaptable living spaces and round the clock support.
Apartments in the facility will be available for affordable rent, with the one and two bedroom bungalows on the site available for shared ownership.
Work will commence in August 2017, with completion of the facility and bungalows ear-marked for January 2019.
For more information about the scheme visit www.forviva.co.uk