Works begins on 107 new homes east of Mendham Lane, Harleston

Work has begun on the development of 107 new homes in Harleston.

Saffron Housing Trust is extending its affordable living portfolio in the town with the independent community living homes, east of Mendham Lane, Harleston, for people aged 55 and over, with additional care needs.

The Housing Association celebrated alongside its partners on May 28 with a traditional ‘breaking ground’ ceremony – held to mark the formal start of building works.

Attendees included Councillor Thomas and Councillor Wilby from Norfolk County Council, James Francis, CEO at Saffron Housing Trust and Simon Medler, regional managing director at Lovell.

Norfolk County Council has provided £4.37m of capital funding to support the scheme, which was named by local children, and will be known as The Oaks.

It is part of the council’s independent community living programme to build more modern, attractive, and sustainable homes for later life across the county. Funding has also been awarded to the development by Homes England.

As part of a wider housing development at the Harleston the site, the homes will deliver a mix of one and two bed affordable apartments and shared ownership bungalows.

On-site, 24/7 care and support will enable people to remain independent in a home of their choice.

Facilities on site will include a hairdressing salon and communal gardens.

Cllr Thomas, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “We’ve been working hard to bring more independent living schemes to Norfolk.

“Thanks to the efforts of Saffron Housing Trust and our other partners we’ll soon be able to offer people in Harleston a new home in a friendly community that will offer peace of mind with personalised care and support on site.”

James Francis, CEO at Saffron Housing Trust, said: “Today marks the exciting start of works on our biggest Independent Community Living scheme to date.”

Completion is due in 2027