EXCLUSIVE

by Sarah Mawhinney

AN innovative £5 million housing scheme for older residents could get the go-ahead in Charford.

Sixty-five bungalows and flats in Gilbert Road could undergo a massive refurbishment and 27 new flats could be built to create accommodation for the town, where more than 20 per cent of the population is of retirement age.

The proposal, subject to planning permission, would transform existing facilities and create a thriving hub for the town's older people in a scheme which is a first for Bromsgrove.

Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (BDHT) has made a funding application for £2.1 million from the Housing Corporation. A successful application would add to the £1.9 million BDHT has already pledged towards the scheme and the £1 million council grant.

Improvements to existing residences would mean new kitchens and bathrooms for residents plus homes would be adapted to suit their needs.

An extra care scheme is a style of housing and care for older people that is a mix between sheltered housing and more traditional residential care homes.

Each flat would have its own front door to allow independence and residents would benefit from a home care team based on site. Residents would have their own individual flexible care plan and a 24-hour alarm and call service.

Other benefits include communal areas, group activities and outings, shops, guest suites, therapy suite, art and craft rooms, information technology facilities and a health and beauty salon.

BDHT director of finance and resources, Mark Robertson, said: "The aim of the extra care scheme would be to give older people the support they need without inhibiting their independence.

"It will give older people more choices and mean residents won't necessarily need to move house if they become frail and require care support."

Bromsgrove District Council's cabinet portfolio holder for housing Cllr Peter Whittaker (Con-Tardebigge) said the authority was committed to working with BDHT on its strategic policies for older people in the district.

He added: "A new extra care scheme, the first in Bromsgrove, would signal a new era in the district for services for the elderly."

A decision on the grant is expected in February 2006.

If the cash is offered plans would then be submitted to the council.

Planning meetings could be set up in February to allow residents to have their say and work could begin on the site in November 2006 if agreement can be reached.