For several years I have worked with Lakeview Residents Association and Northampton Partnership Homes (NPH) seeking the conversion of an empty former nursing home into the development of new council homes – to specifically cater for elderly people. This has now been realised.
You can read about my previous work on this matter here: https://www.michaelellis.co.uk/news/progress-lakeview. After previously working with the Residents Association to oppose earlier objectionable plans, we then supported NPH’s plans to develop the site into 45 new council homes for older people.
I was particularly delighted therefore to officially open this brand new property on Friday, 1st March.
Residents have long-campaigned for more housing suitable for older people. I congratulate Northampton Borough Council (NBC) for taking the decision to purchase the site and NPH in delivering this excellent housing development. The new site includes wheelchair friendly apartments as part of a ‘bright and welcoming’ design, as chosen by local residents. The development will have many communal facilities including a lounge, mobility scooter storage, a garden and a community alarm system which – if needed – can summon assistance 24 hours a day. The new apartments are specifically designed for people over 55 on the Council’s housing register.
These are great new homes created with older residents in mind. This accommodation provides security, accessibility and freedom in later life. There is a shortage of accommodation for older people which is fit for purpose for the future, so this is an excellent and welcome addition.