Eight new eco-efficient almshouses for local keyworkers have been officially opened in the village of Thames Ditton, in the borough of Elmbridge, Surrey.
The homes are located at Sigma Homes’ Merrywood development. The housebuilder was joined by the Walton Charity, and the Mayor of Elmbridge, Councillor Steve Bax to officially open the homes.
Located within the sought-after Weston Green neighbourhood, Lambert Place forms part of the wider Merrywood scheme and is the result of a unique partnership between the West Sussex-based developer and historic local charity, Walton Charity.
Designed specifically for keyworkers – from SEN teaching assistants and physiotherapists, to nursery nurses – the homes are said to offer long-term, affordable living in one of Surrey’s most desirable villages.
The official opening was marked with a special ceremony on site, where Councillor Bax, unveiled a commemorative plaque alongside Walton Charity’s chair of trustees, Sarah Tomkins. The event brought together key partners and new residents to celebrate the charity’s first almshouses to be delivered in more than 40 years – to include two more purpose-built homes in Esher.
Rob Mills, chief executive of Walton Charity, said: “The difference safe and secure housing makes to someone’s life is immense. It is not just a roof over your head, but it is somewhere you can call home, where children can play and do their homework, where health and well-being is improved, where you can bring friends and family home. We’re proud to be helping keyworkers stay in the community they serve.”
Built to a high specification and nestled within Sigma’s Merrywood scheme, the almshouses are a continuation of Walton Charity’s 800-year legacy of providing homes for those in need for 250 years – adapted for modern working families.
Geoff Potton, chief executive of Sigma Homes, said: “We are honoured to have played a part in the delivery of these homes and to support Walton Charity’s vital mission. The values behind this initiative align closely with our own, and it’s rewarding to see how this small part of our development will have a lasting impact on the local community.”
According to a 2024 report from Shelter, renting in the private sector is unaffordable for 45% of newly qualified nurses. In the South-East, this rises to 93%. Walton Charity’s research has also revealed that Elmbridge is one of the most expensive and unequal boroughs in the country, meaning the housing challenge is particularly stark.
Main image: Mayor of Elmbridge, Councillor Steve Bax (centre)
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