Sheffield’s seniors to gain new purpose-built council homes
Sheffield’s over 60s could soon be living in purpose-built homes with the latest assistive technologies and private balconies.
This latest addition to the Council Housing Stock Increase Programme, which consists of 132 units, 114 apartments and 18 bungalows, is due to open in the coming months.
Councillor Douglas Johnson, Chair of Housing Policy Committee, said: “These much needed council homes will be a mixture of new properties built by the council and the purchase of existing properties and new build homes ‘off plan’ from developers.
“We’re on target with this building programme and the planning that goes with it to provide more houses in the right areas and of the right size and specification.”
Those who live in the purpose-built properties will benefit from larger than average accommodation with the latest assistive technology, out-of-hours concierge, a guest flat for family and friends, private balconies or a garden and access to outdoor space. Pets will also be welcome.
Under the Buchanan Green Older Persons Independent Living Scheme (OPIL), half of the new properties in Parson Cross will be for over 60s to bid for under Choice Based Lettings, with the other half for people referred through the council’s adult social care service.
The council are also prioritising significant investments to improve the quality of existing council homes, with £40m currently being invested each year on day-to-day council house repairs.
Cllr Johnson said: “We’re doing our best to catch up with the outstanding repairs that are needed.
“We are all aware too of the huge increase in energy bills which will impact on the community heating charge and on all tenants because of the increases in costs from energy suppliers.
“It’s so important for people to keep safe and warm for health and wellbeing, so we will do what we can to address the struggles that many families in the city will face due to these energy increases.”
The council’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA) hardship fund is supporting the most vulnerable households affected by these increases.
Read more about the council housing plan here
