As the first development of its kind in Burton upon Trent, the new Chestnut Grange extra-care home provides 24/7 care for the elderly community.
Designed by Walker Troup Architects and part funded by the HCA, the £8.5 million project involved the construction of 67 units, comprising a mixture of one and two-bedroom apartments.
County Councillor, Matthew Ellis, said:
“This is tremendous news for the Burton people and helps towards our commitment for more high quality lifestyle orientated developments across Staffordshire for those who have varying care needs, or are simply getting that bit older.
“Chestnut Grange is a great example of how people can live life to the full with greater independence and safe in the knowledge that there is 24/7 care and support available on demand as their health circumstances change.
“We pledged back in 2009 to raise the number of Extra/Flexi Care places available to buy or rent across Staffordshire from 430 and then to 1500 over 4 years. We are now on track for over 2000, meaning that even more people will be able to maintain active, flexible and enjoyable lives as they get older or their health needs change.”
Before the project could commence, two existing buildings on the site – Horace Pritchard House and Anglesey Court Sheltered Housing – had to be demolished. Following this, main contractor Bullock Construction began the construction of the extra-care scheme in May 2010.
Featuring brick and render with copper fins, a curved entrance and an atrium area, the modern development was designed to achieve ‘Lifetime Home Standards’, which provides for long-term adaptability and flexibility. The development was also built to BREEAM ‘Very Good’ standard and sustainable features include grey water recycling, rainwater harvesting and photovoltaic cells on the roof.
Landscaping has included the creation of a private rear garden, a sensory garden feature and a rear canopy over the patio area. Another first within the design is an exclusive garden pavilion by Crown Pavilions, Hampden Court.
Steve McLoughlin, Project Manager for Trent & Dove Housing, said:
“The project was not without its challenges. In order for construction to begin, two existing buildings had to be demolished and asbestos removal carried out. In addition, the main sewer that ran through the site had to be diverted and material had to be moved to and from the site whilst keeping the residents happy.
“However, the team managed to overcome all challenges and we’ve got exactly what we wanted out of the project.”
With the scheme now complete, exciting facilities available for residents include 24-hour care, communal rooms for activities, scooter stores and a media room. In addition, there is a hairdressing salon, a small shop and an IT suite.
