A new development in Liverpool city region that will provide 77 affordable apartments for people with care needs moves a step closer to completion. Tony McDonough reports

A new homes scheme that will provide 77 affordable apartments in Knowsley for people with care needs is on track to be completed by the end of 2023.

Arncliffe Gardens in Halewood is being built by Countryside Partnerships and, when complete, will be managed by Plus Dane Housing. In the last few days a ‘topping out’ ceremony has been held to celebrate the building reaching its maximum height.

Designed by JDA Architects, the project will include a guest suite, lounge, salon and bistro. Residents will also have access to on-site security and maintenance, support and catering services, as well as a therapeutic sensory garden.

Ian Kelly, director at Liverpool-based Plus Dane, said: “Every day we see how important quality supported housing is – it changes lives and allows people to live safely and independently.

“We can’t wait to open the doors at Arncliffe Gardens as we know there is big demand for this type of supported scheme in the North West.”

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The scheme is expected to be completed by the end of the year with the first residents moving in in early 2024. Affordable rents are those classed as being no higher than 80% of local market rates.

Ian Hilliker, managing director at Countryside Partnerships, added: “This is a significant milestone for Arncliffe Gardens and it means we’re on track to complete the new apartments by the end of the year.

“As one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, we believe it’s crucial to build homes in all tenures, and these new supported housing apartments will make a huge difference to those in the community with care needs.”