TWO of Fenland’s sheltered housing schemes declared as being ‘not fit for purpose’ are to close and the sites redeveloped.

Roddon’s Housing Association announced its decision on The Dale in Elm and Napier Court/Elizabeth Terrace in Wisbech after a 12-week consultation with residents.

The consultation was part of a Sheltered Housing Review which took place as one of Roddons transfer promises to residents and Fenland District Council.

It raised question marks over the long term suitability of both schemes as sheltered housing in respect of design, layout of individual units and the location of the sites.

Every resident from the two schemes took part in the consultation process which identified a number of options for them to consider. The majority of residents have already opted to move to accommodation of a higher standard in the area and have been supported by Roddons’ staff to make sure the moves are as smooth as possible.

Chairman of Roddons Board, Brenda Reynolds who is herself a resident of Roddons, said: “Our core mission is to enhance life chances, and allowing vulnerable and elderly residents to remain living in properties that simply aren’t fit for purpose just does not fit with this.

“I am really pleased that we have already found the majority of residents better places to live, and that they are happy with the consultation process.”

Portfolio Holder for Shaping Fenland, Councillor kit Owen of Fenland District Council, said: “The consultation has been really fair, thorough and comprehensive, involving residents every stage of the decision making process.

“We have been very impressed with the way Roddons has handled this, and Fenland District Council believes this to be the right decision for our community. We look forward to working in partnership with Christopher Smith, the Roddons Managing Director, and his team to look at the future options of redevelopment of the sites.”

When the remaining residents have moved to more suitable accommodation, Roddons will work in partnership with the council and the local community to discuss how the sites will be developed in the future.