ISG Jackson delivers very sheltered housing scheme in Suffolk
(11/01/2010)

ISG Jackson has completed a £5 million project, building a ‘very sheltered’ housing scheme and community library facility in Kessingland, near Lowestoft in Suffolk for Flagship Housing Group. Occupying a central village location, the new development features 32 individual flats, which have all been designed specifically to provide older people with Very Sheltered Housing with 24 hour care and support.

The two–storey structure is arranged around a central courtyard area, with extensive glazed areas maximising the amount of sunlight entering the interior of the new building. The development has been designed to blend in with the existing built environment, with a traditional tiled roof and red brick façade, however it also features a number of contemporary architectural elements, including timber cladding and attractive glazed balconies.

The 32 two bedroom flats have been purpose-built to be fully adaptable to the specific requirements of residents. Over time, if residents require greater levels of assistance and support, the accommodation is flexibly designed to ensure that individuals need not move to specialist facilities but can remain in their own homes. The building is also 'Secured By Design', boasting a progressive key fob entry system providing excellent levels of security for residents.

The development represents a mix of owner occupiers and rented flats, with impressive communal facilities including an internet café, laundry, hairdressing salon and therapy room, with a large dining area and several multi-use rooms for a range of activities. In addition to the library and café area, there are a number of community rooms and offices for the use of the Parish Council and local residents.

Michael Manning, Director of ISG Jackson's Living division, commented: "The development of high quality and thoughtfully designed accommodation for elderly residents is a key government initiative and ISG Jackson is at the forefront of delivering notable schemes for many of the UK’s largest housing associations. The Kessingland project represents an evolution of this highly successful care model, combining the very latest innovations in residential accommodation with important public facilities, resulting in a building that enhances social integration and becomes the heart of the local community.”

Martin Aust, Flagship’s Strategy and Development Director said, “We are extremely proud of this innovative scheme. Flagship’s purpose to create places where people want to live has been achieved with this outstanding development. I would like to thank the Homes & Communities Agency, Suffolk County Council and Waveney District Council for their support and effective partnership working. This sets the standard for future Very Sheltered Housing.”