A new £5.8 million energy efficient housing scheme for older people and those with mobility needs has been completed in Workington.
Over 100 applications were received for 24 bungalows built by Westfield Housing Association.
Delivered in two phases and supported by a £1.5 million grant from the government’s regeneration and housing agency Homes England, the properties address the growing need for specialist level access housing in the area.
Phase one saw 17 bungalows built on an old garage site now called Crown Close that was blighted by anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping.
It was a derelict site owned by Cumberland Council on Westfield Drive that is now called Balmoral Close with the rest on infill land.
The second phase, which has just been completed, saw seven homes built in Elizabeth Close and opposite in Garth Road.
Twenty three bungalows have two bedrooms with the other a one-bedroom property.
Phase one saw the homes let at affordable rents and phase two offered at social rent as requested by Homes England.
People living in the homes will also benefit from low fuel bills thanks to photovoltaic panels on the roof and modern windows, doors, insulation and heating systems.
The eco measures, which also include electric vehicle chargers, resulted in properties being given an Energy Performance Certificate A-rating which is the highest score possible.
Chief Executive at Westfield Housing Association, Debbie Fox, said: “Completing this scheme is a proud moment for us but more importantly, it is fantastic news for the local community and the people who are now living in their new homes.
“Level access bungalows will really help improve their quality of life making it easier for older people and those who struggle with stairs to get around and stay safe.
“With an ageing population demand for this type of home continues to increase and it is vital we support people wherever we can which is why the bungalows have been made available at social rent and are really energy efficient too.
“The scheme has only been made possible by the support of many key partners including Cumberland Council and Homes England.
“As well as meeting local housing need, it will improve the community by transforming areas that were overgrown and subject to fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.”
MP for Whitehaven and Workington, Josh MacAlister, said: “It was a real pleasure to open these new bungalows in Westfield and to see first-hand the difference they will make for local people.
“Good quality, affordable homes are desperately needed across West Cumbria, especially homes that allow people to live independently, stay close to family and remain part of the communities they know and love.
“This development is a great example of what can be achieved when local housing associations, government and the community work together.
“With £1.5 million of government funding helping to make these new homes possible, it shows our commitment to tackling the housing crisis and investing in the homes local people need.
“I want to thank Westfield Housing Association for their work in delivering this project and for their continued commitment to providing safe, secure and affordable homes in Workington.”
Moss Bay and Moorclose Councillor Stephen Stoddart said: “I have been involved with Westfield Housing Association for the last four years in my capacity as the elected member for Westfield on Cumberland Council and these seven bungalows are the final piece of the jigsaw.
“In total, the 24 bungalows are a fantastic asset to elderly and disabled residents in South Workington and I would like to personally thank everyone involved with the project.”
