Home | News | Local Chichester councillor celebrates new affordable homes for older adults
Chichester Greyfriars Housing Association (CGHA) has completed eight new one-bedroom homes at Royal Close Chichester, an affordable housing scheme for older adults.
On Wednesday 20 October, David Parfitt, Chair of CGHA visited the scheme to celebrate the homes being completed. He said:
“I am delighted with the quality and design of these eight new homes. Many of the HAPPI (Housing for an Ageing Population) principles have been adopted particularly around the space and flexibility of the new homes but also the outdoor space with new plants, trees and a water feature, with seating provided so that all tenants will be able to enjoy it.”
Located close to the centre of Chichester, the homes benefit from great transport links and access to nearby shops and facilities. They bring new neighbours to the Close, where there are 71 existing homes.
Residents have played a key part in the development of the new homes too, for example sharing their views on landscaping which have been incorporated into the build. The homes have already been fully let and the new residents have benefitted by moving from their current home to a new one ensuring that they maintain their independence and quality of life.
Janet Cunningham moved into one of the new flats and said: “I moved into my new home in July. I am absolutely delighted with it and hope it will be my “forever home”. It’s well designed with a wonderful modern kitchen and bathroom and excellent space standards. I really couldn’t be happier.”
The flats also boast green elements, making them more sustainable and better for the environment. This includes solar panels and enhanced energy efficiency. Steve Taylor, Head of Land and Planning at Abri, the lead member of Wayfarer said:
“The efficiency of these new homes will help customers save money on their heating and bills. Additionally, the green features will encourage residents to learn more about how we can all protect our planet while, most importantly, future-proofing the properties for years to come.”
CGHA has been providing affordable housing for people aged 60 and over in Chichester for more than 50 years, developing homes specifically for those with a local connection.
This Royal Close development was funded with a Homes England grant and funding from Chichester District Council. Alan Sutton, Cabinet Member for Housing, Communications, Licensing and Events at the Council had this to say:
“We were delighted to be able to support this scheme for older people with a grant last year, and it’s really positive news to see that the flats are finished and ready to be called home. Affordable housing makes a huge difference to people’s lives and enables people to stay within their local communities, close to family, friends and local facilities.
“As part of our council’s Housing Strategy we are committed to supporting the development of 1,000 affordable homes for local people by 2025 and it’s great to see a small, local housing association working to meet the needs of the local community.”
CGHA is a member of the housing consortium Wayfarer, and as a member benefits from access to funding programmes to provide homes for the City’s community.
To find out more visit chichestergreyfriars.org.uk
