To provide residents with more high-quality accommodation options, City of York Council is seeking a specialist to build and operate a new development at Lowfield Green.
Older residents have said that they want to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible, so the council is planning a new independent living scheme with extra care.
People who live there will have on-site support and, when and where it is needed, carers will be available to visit the residents in their own homes.
Within this new landscaped residential development of 165 lower-energy homes, there is an area reserved for housing with extra care. This will be in addition to Lowfield Green’s 18 apartments for people aged over 55 and its 26 bungalows.
The site of the old school is delivering a total 165 homes, of which 40% will be affordable – and that includes housing designed with older residents in mind.
The tender is proposing a development with a minimum of 40 one- and two-bedroom apartments where residents can access on-site 24-hour care if needed.
The delivery of the scheme must be by a Registered Social Landlord (RSL), and according to the council a number have already expressed an interest in the opportunity.
The care provider will be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as ‘Support in Your Own Home’ and will be graded ‘Good’ or better.
Cllr Denise Craghill, executive member for Housing and Safer Neighbourhoods, said: “This facility for older people is an integral part of the vision for Lowfield Green.
“It means the development will offer the whole range of housing needs across the generations from homes for first time buyers and families, to bungalows, apartments designed with older people in mind, and the independent living with extra care options necessary to meet changing needs.”
Cllr Carol Runciman, executive member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: “In our consultations with older residents, they have told us that privacy, access to outdoor space, and living in a manageable home are important.
“So too is being part of a community, living in appropriate accommodation and in the right location. We welcome bids from organisations skilled at supporting such aims.”
As ever, the continued involvement of the local community, councillors, and stakeholders will be welcomed in the ongoing planning and development of this important site.
Image: Lighthunter/Shutterstock
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