Homes help meet care unit shortfall
The Abbeyfield Kent Society has plans for three “extra care” housing schemes.
Work began in September on the first of these at Larkfield. The scheme in Martin Square is due for completion in 2018.
It will provide 74 one and twobedroom apartments for the over 55s, all available on an affordable rent basis, with 20 reserved especially for service veterans.
Work will begin on the second scheme, in Tonbridge, this month .
It will comprise a mix of 59 one and two-bedroom apartments, with 35 available for rent and 24 for sale through Older Peoples Shared Ownership (OPSO).
The third scheme will be in Nightingale Road, Wateringbury. The design and number of units there is still to be determined.
The charity, now celebrating its 50th year, said the homes would help meet the shortfall of 2,542 extra care units that Kent County Council needs according to its latest Accommodation Strategy.
Leon Steer, chief executive, said: “Our charity has been providing accommodation and care for older people in Kent for 50 years and we aim to use our experience to continue meeting the changing needs of our older community for the next 50 years.
“These projects will create three years of development work, an abundance of new permanent jobs, strengthening the economy and relieving the suffering of many vulnerable people, as well as supporting the NHS and housing market.”