Work on a £12.5 million assisted living scheme in Leicestershire has finished.
National contractor Willmott Dixon has completed the work on Ashby-de-la-Zouch’s new Springfields Independent Living Scheme.
The 65-bed complex has been built for emh care & support, with 50 of the apartments available for rent and 15 for sale under shared ownership.
There are also communal areas such as a beauty salon, hairdressers and bistro to provide residents with an inclusive living environment.
The scheme, which is in the middle of the National Forest, was designed by BRP Architects to reflect its natural surroundings – creating living space that prioritises resident health, wellbeing and comfort.
Michelle Cotterill, director at Willmott Dixon, said: “We’re delighted that the Springfields Independent Living Scheme is now complete and can help to provide much-needed housing for residents in the local area.
“It’s been great to see the build progress throughout construction and we’re excited to see new residents enjoy the many benefits of independent living within this new facility.”
Each apartment includes a secure video door entry system, wheelchair access and mobility aid dependent on individual needs – and offers bespoke care packages and a dedicated team of staff available 24 hours a day.
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Ms Cotterill said: “Our relationship with emh care & support has gone from strength to strength throughout the project and we’re incredibly pleased that the team chose Willmott Dixon to help enhance the local economy and the lives of local people.
“Leaving a lasting legacy in the communities in which we work is very important to us and this development is a great example of where our passion for social value and community wellbeing has been matched by our partners.”
During the build, Willmott Dixon said it provided more than £220,000 worth of “social value” in the form of 20 employment opportunities for local people, mock job interviews for young people, and hosting work experience and career talks with students from nearby Stephenson College.
The team also hosted 201 weeks of apprenticeship training on site, as well as providing opportunities for Leicestershire SMEs and social enterprises through local labour and spend.
Lesleyann England, head of housing and new business at emh care & support, said: “We are very excited to open our brand-new extra care development.
“It’s unique in that it’s an inter-generational scheme that meets the needs of older residents, as well as younger service users who may have physical and/or learning disabilities or sensory needs.
“We are offering both sales and rental options to applicants and are working closely with North West Leicestershire District Council and Leicestershire County Council to ensure that local residents are prioritised for accommodation.
“The scheme offers a modern experience, with a bistro and hairdressers/beauty salon, which are also open to the general public. We are keen to invite all members of the community to utilise these services and to create a community hub.”