Work is underway to deliver 58 energy-efficient extra care apartments in Cranbrook, providing much-needed homes for older people and those with supported housing needs.
With funding from Homes England and East Devon District Council, LiveWest is investing £20m in the development, which is designed to support people with a range of support needs to live well and in later life.
The scheme is being built on land along Tillhouse Road, and was transferred from the Cranbrook developers as part of a planning legal agreement to enable extra care housing to be provided.
The development will include 27 car parking spaces and all 58 homes will be available for social rent, the most affordable tenure within the social housing system.
Gareth Jones, our Development Director, said: “We are delighted to be delivering this important scheme, which will be a real asset to Cranbrook and its growing community. Starting on site is the culmination of many years work.
“Tackling the housing crisis means providing the right homes for everyone, ensuring people have a safe and secure place to call home.
“It is particularly important that our older generations are supported to live independently, affordably and happily. This development will do just that, through providing high-quality homes. It has been achieved as a result of strong partnership working over many years.
“The start of construction marks a significant milestone for Cranbrook and it demonstrates the strength of our collaborative approach with all agencies, but in this particular instance our work with Homes England, and East Devon District and Devon County Councils, in creating thriving communities.”
The development comes forward as part of the wider Section 106 Agreement for Cranbrook entered into by the Consortium of developers and East Devon District Council (EDDC), which includes the delivery of at least 55 extra care apartments for older people, alongside communal facilities.
The scheme is being delivered by Classic Builders and forms part of the wider Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone.
Cllr Todd Olive, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Place, Infrastructure and Strategic Planning, said: “Cranbrook’s long-term vision is to grow as a balanced and sustainable new town, and that means delivering infrastructure and services alongside new homes.
“This extra care scheme is an important part of that vision, helping to ensure the town meets the needs of residents at every stage of life.”
Councillor Richard Keeling, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Adults Services, said: “This development in Cranbrook marks an important step forward, providing much-needed extra care homes for people who want to remain independent for longer while having access to the right support.
“Developments like this play a key role in helping people stay independent and live well within their communities.
“We are pleased to have worked closely with partners and to have supported the scheme through making the land available at no cost, helping to bring forward high-quality, affordable homes for the community.”
Adam Brimacombe, Managing Director of Classic Builders, said: “Classic Builders is delighted to be appointed as main Contractor for Cranbrook’s Extra Care project, working in partnership with LiveWest, East Devon District Council City Council and with support from Homes England, we will deliver 58 new affordable homes - an important step in helping to meet generational needs.
“As an Exeter-based contractor, we’re proud to be involved in a project that will make a real difference to the local community and the new Town. We are committed to working with our trusted local supply chain, creating opportunities for regional businesses, and ensuring lasting social value.
“We look forward to playing our part in delivering high-quality homes, supporting the continued growth of Cranbrook and the wider communities.”
The development has also received grant funding from Homes England, the Government’s housing and regeneration agency.
Shahi Islam, Director of Affordable Housing Grants at Homes England, said: “As the government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting LiveWest to achieve its ambitions.
“It is great to see work underway at the Cranbrook development. This site is a prime example of how we are working collaboratively with partners to create thriving communities that people can be proud of.”