Sheltered housing complexes demolished for £1bn Havering Council regeneration scheme
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DEMOLITION has begun on a former sheltered housing site in Havering, to turn it into a ‘modern retirement village’.
The land in South Hornchurch formerly housed the Solar, Serena and Sunrise Courts sheltered housing complexes.
But the buildings are now being knocked down in order to build 172 ‘high quality apartments’, which will be ‘designated to full meet the needs’ of retired people.
The development is part of the first phase of Havering Council’s £1billion ’12 Estates’ project – a joint venture with developer Wates Residential to deliver roughly 5,000 homes in the next 15 years.
Phase One also includes the demolition of Napier and New Plymouth House in Rainham and the regeneration of the Waterloo estate in Romford.
The authority said it would double the number of council-rented properties in the borough and also double the number of ‘affordable’ homes.
It has also promised the scheme will include ‘legacy’ developments, including health and leisure facilities.
The new retirement homes in South Hornchurch will include communal residents’ lounges, treatment studios and a village hall. Outdoor facilities will include an extended garden with lawn games and an allotment.
Tory council leader Damian White said: “This new retirement village will create a safe haven for our older and more vulnerable residents, whilst ensuring they can live full and independent lives.
“With an ever-ageing population, it is vital that our borough-wide regeneration creates homes that meet the needs of the local community.
“The wider project will deliver a wealth of new homes across the borough, from specialise retirement homes to much-needed family housing for local people.”
