Kingston Council has approved plans to build 45 new homes on Acre Road, designed specifically for adults with autism or learning disabilities and older residents, in what the council describes as a 'unique' development for the borough.
Hartington House and Campbell House Details
The project includes Hartington House, which will consist of 12 flats, a communal space, and overnight sleep-in facilities for individuals aged 18 and over with autism or learning disabilities. Adjacent to it, Campbell House will provide 33 properties, including three accessible bungalows, tailored for residents aged 55 and above.
On Tuesday, the council's people committee unanimously agreed to begin procuring a care provider for Hartington House. The authority expects the contract to cost up to £6.2 million over five years, with an option to extend for another five years.
Lettings Plan and Timeline
The committee also approved a lettings plan to allow people to move into the council homes once completed, expected next summer. All tenants must be on the council's housing register.
Lib Dem councillor Sabah Hamed highlighted the project's importance for independent living. 'We want to make sure they remain connected to their community and they live independently, as I said it's so important, but also that they're connected to their families,' she said.
Council's Statement on Purpose-Built Accommodation
A report by council officers stated: 'The homes for older people will be the council's first purpose-built, bespoke accommodation for residents aged 55 or older. They will be built to reflect modern standards and future proofed to allow for ongoing adaptation including the addition of technology to support the provision of care.'
'Meanwhile, the homes for residents with learning disabilities and autism will be genuinely unique in terms of the council's existing accommodation offer. Designed and built to specifically meet the needs of residents with a broad range of needs, enabling them to live independently with or without additional care, the homes will allow the council to meet its Care Act responsibilities in a more cost effective and appropriate manner, reducing the reliance on out-of-borough placements,' the report added.
