Opening the door to independence

6 September 2010

Residents from  Linkage Community Trust are celebrating this week as their purpose built environmentally friendly homes are officially opened in Alford.

Built and especially adapted for residents with learning difficulties, the homes incorporate the latest energy saving technology and provide independent living for people who may have otherwise needed supported accommodation.

In total there have been 12 affordable homes built in Alford by New Linx Housing Trust in partnership with East Lindsey District Council as part of efforts to address the shortfall in affordable housing in the District. The project has cost £1,070,000.

The Government’s Homes and Communities Agency supported this development by contributing in excess £400,000 of grant funding. The environmentally friendly homes, constructed by R G Carter of Boston, are timber framed and boast ‘eco’ ground source heat pumps and rain water harvesting.

At the heart of this project were the needs and happiness of the Linkage residents. Therefore, at the planning stage New Linx Housing Trust consulted with the residents to ensure they had an opportunity to make suggestions, offer their opinion and to contribute to the final design.

Linkage resident Andrew Snowden aged 43, works for the Co-operative in Mablethorpe. He has recently moved in to his new home at Bateman Gardens after living with his family in Conisholme. Talking about his new home, Andrew said “I like living in Alford and I like my new home. I am more independent and I am able to go out with my friends and run my life the way I want”.
John Boazman, Chairman of New Linx Housing Trust added, “I am very impressed with the stunning design of this housing scheme, visually they fit into the landscape beautifully and I wish the new residents every success and much happiness. This is another example of how our partnership is providing quality, affordable new homes in rural areas. It demonstrates our ability to respond to local housing need and give people a better quality of life”.

Rex Richardson, Care Services Director for Linkage Community Trust said “The partnership has enabled many young people with learning difficulties to fulfil their aspirations to live independently in the community with appropriate support. The impact on their lives has been immeasurable”.

If want to find out more about this contact Jennifer Brown on 01472 372359