Gateshead announces new jobs with “multi-million pound’ specialist housing project

Gateshead has released images of a specialist £14m housing project which will create 82 homes for older people who require a broad range of support needs.

Created and managed by Home Group, the community wellbeing service is being built in partnership with Gateshead Council and Vistry Partnerships North.

Watergate House, in Lobley Hill, Gateshead, will have 47 one-bedroom apartments, 20 two-bedroom apartments, and 15 that are dementia friendly. The development is set to include a large roof terrace, communal gardens and a coffee bar, as well as a fully fitted guest suite and purpose-built salon.

40 new jobs are also expected to be created at the housing project.

Sally Parsons, director of housing and support at Home Group, said: “Social isolation and loneliness has a significant impact on the older generation – something that’s only been further highlighted by the pandemic.

“We want to connect communities and offer a safe and attractive place for our customers, their friends and family to spend time together. People should feel empowered and motivated to maintain and develop their skills into later life.”

Cllr John Adams, Cabinet Member for Housing, Gateshead Council said: “Gateshead Council is pleased to support the opening up of a brand-new Extra Care Housing development in Gateshead.

“Watergate House will provide older people with specially designed apartments, in a vibrant community; crucially the site will enable people with current care needs or those with potential care needs, to continue living in their own homes.

“This new state of the art Extra Care setting will support Gateshead Council in their objective to support older people living within their communities and reduce the need for Residential Care settings.

Cllr John Adams concluded: “The scheme will have support available 24 hours per day along with technology and equipment to ensure people live as independently as possible.”

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