50 Years Remembered at Lilleshall Crescent

Published by Kate Hughes for Wolverhampton Homes in Housing and also in Communities

The residents of Lilleshall Crescent in All Saints were joined by the Mayor, Councillor Bert Turner, at a special street party to mark the estate’s 50th anniversary.

The celebrations were jointly organised by Wolverhampton City Council Neighbourhood Support Service and Wolverhampton Homes with help from a variety of other local organisations such as the Wolverhampton Arts and Museum Service.

Residents, who are all aged over 50, enjoyed food, stalls and even a bit of gentle exercise at the event on Monday (18 July). The two oldest residents, who have lived at Lilleshall Crescent since the beginning, were also presented with flowers.

Lilleshall Crescent was built in 1961 and many residents have lived there most of that time. Resident, Floss Spittle aged 80 said: “I had such a lovely day and it was great to see everyone celebrating and sharing memories.

“Living here helps me maintain my independence as I have great friends and neighbours at Lilleshall Crescent and we all look out for each other.”

Mayor, Councillor Bert Turner, said: “There was a real sense of community and celebration among the residents.

“The people may have changed, but the sense of neighbourliness remains and I was delighted to be invited to join this special event.”

Lilleshall Crescent recently became part of a trial by Wolverhampton Homes to attract new tenants. People aged between 50 and 59, in addition to people aged 60 plus, can now apply for properties.

Previously, to qualify for a home within such schemes, applicants had to be aged 60 plus or 55 and registered disabled.

The scheme has been a success for Lilleshall Crescent with 11 new tenants aged between 50 and 75 moving in since April.

Residents used the anniversary event to attract interest in the final property to be let by carrying out viewings and supplying information to anyone interesting in snapping it up.

Mark Henderson, Director of Housing at Wolverhampton Homes and who attended the 50th anniversary event, said: “We are really pleased with how successful the trial of lowering the age limit has been for Lilleshall Crescent and it was great to see tenants old and new come together at the 50th anniversary celebrations.” 

Wolverhampton City Council Neighbourhood Support Service offers a free, support service to older (60+) or disabled people which helps them to live independently within their own homes and community.  For more information contact 01902 554701.