Work has begun on a state-of-the-art £9.3million care complex for the elderly in Whittlesey.
Due for completion in October 2019, Willow Court, will provide 60 new extra care apartments for rent.
Mayor of Whittlesey, Councillor Julie Windle, said: “I’m delighted to see the start of work at this development. I know it’s taken a while and a lot of hard work from all involved to get to this stage but it’s a very exciting development for the town of Whittlesey.
“It is something that is much-needed in the local area and to see how everyone has come together to bring this to fruition is fantastic.
“It probably won’t be completed during my time as Mayor, but as a local resident, I look forward to seeing it finished and open.”
The development combines high-quality, modern accommodation with an on-site provision of tailored care and support, enabling customers to maintain their independence.
The project is being delivered by Peterborough-based Axiom Housing Association – part of Longhurst Group and builders Lindum Group
When finished, Willow Court will offer 47 one-bedroom apartments and 13 two-bedroom properties as well as a residents’ lounge, restaurant, hair salon and therapy room, micro-shop and communal gardens.
The development has received support from Cambridgeshire County Council, Fenland District Council and Homes England, which has provided £3.6m of funding.
Louise Platt, Longhurst Group’s executive director of care and business partnerships, said: “Willow Court will significantly improve the lives of elderly people in the local community, one in seven of whom are currently struggling to access the social care that they need because of their rural location and the lack of this kind of facility.
“It’s an ambitious project but the key criteria is that it will be affordable. It will be a fully-rented scheme, which is becoming a rarer commodity. It’s going to be a real asset to the area.
Stephen Wenham, Chair of Longhurst Group’s Homes Board, added: “This is an excellent example of strong partnership working, at its most effective.”
Mick Papworth, managing director of Lindum, said: “As a local construction company, it is satisfying to work on a development which will provide much-needed care facilities for vulnerable members of our community.”
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