£8m Cannock homes deemed fit for a queen

Chasewood is a new block of 63 self-contained apartments.

Queen Elizabeth II lookalike, Patricia Ford, had the honour of cutting the ribbon before enjoying afternoon tea with the new residents.

The care facilities have been developed by The Wrekin Housing Trust and Choices Housing Association under ShireLiving. The development cost £6.5m in investment from the Wrekin Housing Trust, plus £1.2m grant funding from the Homes and Communities Agency and £300,000 from Staffordshire County Council.

The new facility aims to offer an alternative to residential care and to enable the elderly in Cannock to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. The development includes private apartments, lounges, a coffee bar and cafe.

Ms Ford said: "I'm delighted to open this fabulous facility. It really is fit for a queen."

The independent apartments have help on hand if needed and are linked to neighbouring facilities including the Longford Centre community hub and Alderwood medical practice.

Chasewood service manager Julie Edwards said: "We have an experienced and dedicated team of supportive staff here 24 hours a day.

"This offers security, but also means that we can provide a range of flexible care and support services and tailor them to our residents' needs. The communal spaces are perfect for our organised social activities too."

Councillor Frank Allen, portfolio leader for housing in Cannock, welcomed the new apartments.

"There is always a need for housing for the elderly in Cannock and I very much welcome this type of development. I think it is a good thing for the area. Housing is a main priority for the council.

"This type of development is a brilliant balance for residents who want to keep their independence, but know that there is 24 hour assistance and care on hand if needed. It provides a very happy medium," he said.

Socialising

The development also has a communal area for socialising and leisure activities are organised for residents. The 48 two-bed and 15 one-bed apartments are part of a £12m community and housing hub.

The Longford development on the old Langbourn site on Longford Road also houses Woodland View respite care for people with learning disabilities and the Longford Centre community facilities.

The new centre also includes a restaurant, pharmacy, gardens and the Alderwood Medical Practice.