New city homes could save council £1.2m a year

Building nearly 130 homes in Norwich at a cost of £5.5m could save a local authority £1.2m a year.

Norfolk County Council has agreed to spend the cash on independent and supported living accommodation in the city, as part of a wider £47m programme.

The properties will be built by a social housing provider on the site of the former Woodside School in Heartsease, off Witard Road.

Reform UK cabinet member Scott Hussey said the investment would "give money back in the future" through providing alternatives to more costly residential care home placements.

Through the scheme, 77 apartments will provide independent living for people older than 55 who need care and support.

Twelve flats and 10 bungalows will offer supported living for people needing extra care, and the other 28 will be family homes.

Built by social housing provider Places for People Living Plus, there will also be an on-site public café, a hairdressers and communal areas.

Council officers said the development would provide savings of at least £1.2m a year for the authority.

The project first emerged under the previous Conservative administration in 2018 and is backed by funding from Homes England. Planning permission was granted last month by Norwich City Council.

Construction is set to begin next spring and could be completed by autumn 2029.

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