Merlin builds affordable homes for older people

A £1.8M development being built in Bradley Stoke will boost the availability of affordable homes for older people wanting to live in the area. Merlin Housing Society is working in partnership with developers McCarthy & Stone, to provide 24 purpose built flats right in the heart of the community.

Ian Matthews, Merlin’s Chief Executive, said:

“We’re delighted to be building new homes. Affordable housing is in short supply and we hope these properties will help ease demand.”

“This development will see us own and manage properties in Bradley Stoke – an area with high demand for older people’s housing – for the first time. And we’ve got plans to continue to invest in building more new homes over next five years.”

Due for completion in January 2013, the development includes 24 purpose built flats, with communal facilities and external gardens. The site sits in the heart of the Bradley Stoke, and being adjacent to the Willow Brook Centre, is in an ideal position for accessing local amenities.

Designed specifically with the needs of older people in mind, the development will be constructed to Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3, Lifetime Homes and Secured By Design standards.

The society is taking forward McCarthy & Stone’s Section 106 affordable housing element as set out by South Gloucestershire Council, which requires 33% of new development to be made available for affordable tenures.

The homes will be available through HomeChoice, South Gloucestershire Council’s choice based lettings scheme.

McCarthy & Stone’s neighbouring development, known as Brook Court, comprises 50 one and two bedroom ‘Later Living’ apartments, designed exclusively for the over 60s.

According to the company’s website, prices start at £165,950 and there are 33 apartments still available.

Photo 1: Merlin Housing Society’s affordable homes under construction.

Photo 2: McCarthy & Stone retirement apartments under construction.

Related link: Property in Bradley Stoke (The Journal)