ASRA puts care first » Communities » 24dash.com

Phase two construction of a £31 million care village development for vulnerable older people in Southall, west London has been given the green light by Ealing Council with work scheduled to commence in July.

Sunningdale Court, part of the Golf Links Estate on Flemming Road, was first earmarked for re-development in 2002 through a partnership agreement between ASRA Greater London Housing Association, Notting Hill Housing Group, the Housing Corporation and Ealing Council.  Outline planning approval was given in 2003 and with it, the go-ahead for the demolition of the existing four block accommodation of 71 flats.

With phase one now close to completion, the four stage project will create 123 new homes overall – sheltered and extra care units - for older people.

Following transfer of the land to ASRA and NHHG, agreement with the council is further facilitating £3 million of environmental improvements elsewhere on the estate.

"The scheme is the first of its kind in the area and is a creative alternative to traditional housing options for older people," said ASRA's head of development, Richard D'Cruz.  "Sunningdale Court will provide high level support and care accommodation, but will still enable residents to live independently and safely in their own homes."

Phase two construction will replace the existing block with a mix of 44, one-bed and two-bed secure apartments with visitor car parking and landscaped gardens.  Four wheelchair adapted units will be provided on the ground floor.

"Existing tenants from the phase two site will be moved into the completed phase one scheme developed by NHHG," added Richard D'Cruz.  "ASRA will develop and manage phases two and four with NHHG taking care of phases one and three.  Homes will be built to the Lifetimes Homes Standard and fully meet the industry recognised eco homes ratings."

Residents of phase 2 will have access to an extensive landscaped courtyard garden at the rear of the development.  Private balconies or patios will also be provided for each apartment, and a roof terrace is also proposed on the third floor level.

Tenants already living at Sunningdale Court will be prioritised in terms of moving into their new accommodation, with any newcomer balance being nominated via the borough's choice based lettings mechanisms.

Completion of Sunningdale Court phase two is scheduled for October 2007.}~

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Press release issued: April 13 2006