Official Opening for Short Heath Extra Care Scheme

Published by 792 for Housing 21 in Housing and also in Communities, Local Government

An extra care scheme for older people in Short Heath was officially opened last week.  Joining residents in the presentation of a plaque to commemorate the occasion were officials from Housing 21, Walsall Borough Council and Willmott Dixon.

Winehala Court in Sandbeds Road provides 60 one and two bedroom apartments in a scheme which is tailored to meet the needs of older people, whilst allowing them to still live independently. The development includes options for rent or purchase on a shared ownership basis and residents have the advantage of 24 hour on-site care and support, should they need it.

One of the first to move in, 78 year old Mrs Brenda Bleckley, said: “I came to Winehala Court early in October and was impressed with what I saw. Most of all I could have my independence but with help there if I should need it.”

Winehala Court provides facilities which are open to the local community, including a hairdressing salon, restaurant and convenience store. A day centre also operates within the scheme.

Tayo Bilewu, director of property development for Housing 21 said: “I’m delighted to be able to celebrate, with residents and colleagues, the opening of Winehala Court. Our strong and successful partnership with Walsall Borough Council and Willmott Dixon has enabled us to deliver good quality housing for older people as well as a valuable community facility.”

Winehala Court is one of five extra care housing schemes to be provided under the £43 million project to re-provide older people’s housing across the borough.

Residents benefit from the security of a door entry system with intercom to every apartment as well as emergency pull cords in every room and a pendant call system. The scheme has a guest room that can be used for residents’ family and friends, assisted bathrooms and a healthcare/therapy suite.

Peter Owen, managing director for Willmott Dixon in the Midlands says, “This is another important milestone in our partnership with Housing 21 to create modern living accommodation for older people. We are very proud of work with Housing 21 and Walsall Borough Council over the past three years in creating a new generation of high quality homes for older people that will serve Walsall for many years to come, with Winehala Court the latest addition.”