Plans for 79 New Affordable Flats for Older People Approved in Stevenage

A significant plan to redevelop the Mozart Court site in Stevenage has been approved by councillors, paving the way for 79 new affordable flats for older people. The development, proposed by Anchor Housing, involves replacing 33 existing homes with a six-storey building containing 68 one-bed and 11 two-bedroom apartments. These apartments will be specifically designed for people aged over 55 and will feature amenities such as allotments, an orchard area, and patios to encourage residents to spend time outdoors.

Key Takeaways:

• The development will provide 79 new affordable flats for older people in Stevenage, specifically designed for people aged over 55.
• The six-storey building will replace 33 existing homes and will contain 68 one-bed and 11 two-bedroom apartments.
• The development will include amenities such as allotments, an orchard area, and patios to encourage residents to spend time outdoors.
• The site will not meet the council's normal car parking and cycle storage space standards, with 25 and 66 spaces provided respectively, rather than the expected 40 and 92.
• Existing residents will be moved to temporary accommodation in Stevenage while construction takes place before being offered the option to move back into one of the new homes.
• Councillors unanimously agreed to back the scheme, with Cllr Coleen De Freitas highlighting the potential to free up 46 homes on the waiting list by moving elderly residents into supported environments.
• The development is expected to provide 100% affordable housing for residents aged over 55, more than doubling the affordable homes available on the previously developed site.

Statistics:

• 79 new affordable flats will be built for older people in Stevenage.
• 68 one-bed and 11 two-bedroom apartments will be included in the development.
• The building will be 20 metres (66ft) high.
• 25 parking spaces and 66 cycle storage spaces will be provided, rather than the expected 40 and 92.
• The development is expected to free up 46 homes on the waiting list by moving elderly residents into supported environments.
• The building will meet national space and accessibility standards to ensure good quality and accessible accommodation for older residents.

Sources:

• Stevenage Borough Council
• Saunders Boston Architects
• Anchor Housing
• Chloe Smith (spokeswoman for the applicant)
• Cllr Stephen Booth, Cllr Coleen De Freitas