Member Article

Mayor joins in celebrations at extended housing development

The Vela Group and residents of an older persons’ housing scheme are celebrating after an investment of nearly £900,000 has seen the completion of ten new affordable rent homes built for people over the age of 60.

The extended housing development at Newholm Court, Hartlepool, which includes 10 two-bedroom bungalows, two of which have been built to wheelchair accessible standard, was officially opened by Hartlepool Mayor, Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher alongside new residents Harry and Jean James.

At its official opening, new residents were invited to a Meet the Neighbours event giving them the opportunity to socialise with existing residents, enjoy afternoon tea and bingo, and view the community centre which hosts regular activities.

The scheme at Newholm Court supports both older people and people with learning difficulties. It is managed by Housing Hartlepool, which is part of the Vela Group, and incorporates a number of properties owned by the Guinness Trust. It was originally built in 1950 providing 59 one and two-bedroom bungalows and was refurbished in 1995.

Harry, 69, and wife Jean, 64, recently moved into their new home having lived nearby at a larger property in Catcote Road for over 25 years.

Commenting on their recent move, Harry said: “We are delighted with our new home, it’s in an ideal location for us and will provide a greater level of access and support for us going forward. It’s been a great afternoon meeting our new neighbours as well as the Mayor and seeing all of the facilities that are available to us.”

Councillor Akers-Belcher added: “Meeting the residents of Newholm Court was a great opportunity to hear first-hand about the important role in providing affordable and accessible housing. There was a fantastic atmosphere on the day bringing neighbours together, showing a real sense of a cohesive community.”

Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive said: “Sheltered housing is an excellent resource for our older customers who wish to remain as independent as possible but who need to have appropriate support and care services on hand. We are proud to have successfully completed this high quality, modern and flexible accommodation, which will allow people to live independently in their own homes.”

“We have engaged with residents throughout the development and will continue to work closely with partners in our communities to improve the provision of future sheltered housing schemes, whilst adapting our services to keep pace with the needs of our older customers.”

All of the properties were built to comply with the requirements of the Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3, making them highly energy efficient as well as cheaper to heat and run. They were built by Southdale Homes and were financially supported by a £150,000 grant from the Homes and Communities Agency.

For further information on homes available to rent and to buy through various home ownership schemes, please visit www.velagroup.co.uk

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