New homes for over-55s on brownfield site

Friday, 8 March 2024 16:15

By James Coneys-Murphy

Plans to create much-needed accommodation for people aged over 55 are set to be approved by the council.

An independent living scheme, comprising up to 24 apartments for social or affordable rent, would be built on the site of The Elms in Whitefield.

The Elms is a long-term disused council owned brownfield site, located within a well-established residential area. The site was occupied by a Victorian building of five flats, which had fallen into significant disrepair and had lain empty for five years. A condition survey was undertaken in October 2021 by consultants who confirmed that reinstatement/refurbishment costs were unviable, and demolition was the best option. It was finally demolished in December 2023.

The council’s cabinet, when it meets next Wednesday (13 March), is being asked to approve proposals to seek a developer to build the new homes.

Councillor Clare Cummins, cabinet member for housing services, said: “Across Bury, we need to ensure we have a variety of accommodation to meet the needs of all residents and household sizes.

“However, there is an increasing shortage of independent living schemes for older people, an age group which will increase significantly in the coming years, and high levels of need for affordable housing.

“This scheme would be an excellent use of turning a brownfield site into much-needed housing, which would enable older people to live independently in Bury for as long as possible. It would also bring considerable benefits in health and community care, and substantial savings on the council’s adult social care budgets as residents would not have to access help outside of our borough.”