Praise for Sandwell Extra Care Scheme

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

A NEW Extra Care housing scheme for older people was officially opened last week with the presentation by the Leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Darren Cooper of a commemorative plaque to the residents.

Queensridge Court in Oldbury, was developed in partnership with Sandwell Council, Thomas Vale Construction and the Homes & Communities Agency, and provides 87 purpose-built apartments for the over 55s along with on-site care and support services. The £12 million Housing 21 development which received £6 million from the Homes and Communities Agency, also features a restaurant, library, hair and beauty salon and conservatory.

Receiving the plaque on behalf of the residents was Olive Baker, Olive Wareham and Grace Russell, who were the first to move in.  Olive Baker said: "It has made such a difference moving in here. There's a really nice atmosphere to Queensridge Court. I love my new apartment and I've also made some very nice new friends."

Sandwell Council leader Councillor Darren Cooper said: “I have been following the progress of this scheme, which offers older people both independence and personalised care. I am pleased to see it has been completed to a very high standard - it looks superb and is exactly what residents of Sandwell deserve.”

Tayo Bilewu, director of property development for Housing 21, added: “It’s fantastic to see Queensridge Court coming to life now that the residents have moved in. There’s a real community feel to this development and it’s pleasing to see local businesses, who operate the restaurant and hair and beauty salon also benefiting. I’m sure it will soon become a vibrant hub for the people of Oldbury.”

The one and two bedroom apartments offer options for either rent or purchase on a shared ownership basis. The apartments have been built to wheelchair mobility standards and benefit from under-floor gas central heating, walk-in showers and fully fitted kitchens.  

Queensridge Court is Housing 21’s first extra care scheme in Sandwell, another development, Goldfield Court in Greets Green, is due to complete in 2012.

Rob Kilby, investment and regeneration manager for the HCA Midlands, said: “It is great to see tenants celebrating the opening of Queensridge Court – enjoying the high quality housing and facilities within their new community.  HCA is pleased that its investment here and at Goldfield Court in Greets Green, is supporting the Council and Housing 21 to deliver these important schemes, which meet the needs of local communities in Sandwell.”  

Ian Cox, partnership and development director for Tomas Vale Construction said: "Once again our "Think Local" philosophy has delivered real benefits to economy across the Borough of Sandwell, along with numerous training opportunities, creating new jobs, as well as a quality product!" 

A few of the apartments are still available for purchase on a shared ownership basis. Further information can be obtained from Housing 21’s Sales Department on
0345 608 4021 or emailing sales@housing21.co.uk