Community and stakeholder event success to mark next stage of Acle Independent Community Living scheme
The next stage of our new Independent Community Living Plus scheme in Acle has been marked with an event for the local community and key stakeholders.
On Monday 4th July, members of the public were able to drop in, view plans of the scheme and ask staff from Saffron, Norfolk County Council, NorseCare and Broadland District Council any questions they had.
During the afternoon, partners and other key stakeholders had the opportunity to tour the site to see how the development has progressed and viewed the recently completed show apartments.
Norfolk-based R G Carter are the contractors on site for ‘Swallowtail Place’ which is due for completion in the autumn. The exciting new scheme will consist of 58 new affordable one and two-bedroom self-contained apartments, comprised of 41 for rent and 17 available to buy on a shared ownership basis.
All of the homes are designed specifically for people aged over 55, with the rental properties aimed at those with care needs to live independently, creating not only much needed housing but also enhancing the appearance of the local area. On-site care and support will be available 24/7 by NorseCare, giving residents and their families peace of mind that support is close to hand if needed. With the inclusion of communal spaces such as a lounge, activity room, bistro space and a hair salon as well as outside areas, residents will remain active in the community.
The shared ownership apartments can be bought by those who meet the eligibility criteria, regardless of whether they have a current care need, but they have the opportunity to enjoy all of the facilities on offer at Swallowtail Place.
Faith Davies, Head of Development at Saffron, said: “It has been really exciting for us to be able to invite the local community to look at the layout of the new homes and answer their questions about the apartments and the facilities that will be on offer. The new Independent Community Living Plus scheme will help reduce isolation and allow residents to still feel part of the community.
“Swallowtail Place will provide much needed housing and will add to our existing provision for people with care needs in Costessey, Bowthorpe and Diss. We can’t wait to open the doors to the local community.
Cllr Bill Borrett, Norfolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “It’s been very exciting to see Swallowtail Place take shape from an idea into what we have today. I’m delighted that we will soon have it open so we will be able to share it with the local community.
“What Swallowtail Place offers is much needed Independent Living, a place where those with care needs can continue to live in their own home, retaining their independence, with the peace of mind that comes with having support on hand 24 hours a day. We know the benefits of this type of living, and I can’t wait to see the first residents move in later this year.”
Justin Galliford, Chief Executive Officer from Norse Group, said: “NorseCare is proud to be the on-site care provider at Swallowtail Place. We are working closely with our partners to ensure this scheme becomes a vibrant part of the Acle community and that first-class care is delivered to those who need it.”
Councillor Fran Whymark from Broadland District Council said: “It’s important that everyone has a place to call their own. Swallowtail Place will provide a home where residents can feel safe and secure, where they can make new friends and feel a part of a community. This new development will give its residents the dignity of their own front door with the security of knowing help is on hand if needed.”