Work begins on Preston's very first Independent Living Scheme
Work has begun on Preston’s first independent living scheme on Dovedale Avenue, Ingol. The new scheme will consist of 60 fully wheelchair accessible one and two bedroomed apartments, all with private outdoor space. The scheme will also contain a bistro, hairdressers, treatment/consultation and activity rooms.
Councillor Brian Rollo, The Mayor of Preston, who joined us to celebrate the start of work on site, said,
“This scheme has been a long time coming – I know, I was on the CGA Board 6 years ago when the first discussions were held about getting the finance and planning through. We’ve dug the very first hole today, there’s still a lot more work to do, be I’m sure it’ll be well worth it! I’m excited to see the finished scheme.”
The facilities, along with the communal gardens, will be open to the general public, to encourage engagement with the wider community and neighbouring residents.
Louise Mattinson, our Executive Director of Customers and Communities, said,
“This scheme will provide a fantastic resource for the local community, who have been overwhelmingly supportive. When the scheme is completed, the building, and the services that we will be able to deliver for some of our most vulnerable residents, will be something that the local community and everyone involved in designing the scheme, can be really proud of. I’d like to thank Homes England for providing significant funding and also say a particular thank you to our Sheltered Housing Action Group members, who have helped design such a great scheme and campaigned tirelessly to get the scheme off the ground for a number of years.”
The first of its kind in Preston and one of very few in Lancashire, the new independent living scheme will provide 24 hour support to residents with a range of support needs, from those with high level support needs, requiring daily care, to those with low/no care needs, who will benefit from support from staff members when needed.
The contractor leading on this development is North West based company, Cruden Construction. Site Manager, Paul Hunter said,
“Cruden Construction have worked on a few villages, care homes and schemes similar to this one, so CGA can rest assured they’re in good hands. Since we were appointed to this project back in March, we’ve worked hard to ensure the apartments are accessible; making the doors wider, ensuring level access with nothing above 15mm off the ground, to make getting around easier for residents and visitors alike.”
The build is scheduled to be complete in 2020. To keep up with the progress of the build, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.