Morgan Sindall Construction has completed work on a development that will increase independent supported living provision across Leeds.
The Sycamores — located in Woodlesford — is Morgan Sindall Construction’s second Extra Care scheme for Lovell Later Living, Leeds City Council, and integrated housing and care provider Home Group, following the completion of the Greenmill Gardens Wellbeing community in the Seacroft area of Leeds in October 2022.
The £13.4m scheme — designed by P&HS Architects — will maximise the independence of people requiring on-going care and support, such as those with health conditions and older people.
The Sycamores comprises 62 one- and two-bed self-contained apartments with contemporary kitchen facilities, ensuite bathrooms and private balcony or patio. The scheme also includes communal areas and landscaped gardens alongside a community café and hair salon, which will be available for use by residents and the local community.
Throughout its build programme, Morgan Sindall undertook a comprehensive social value programme to ensure the community benefited from project. 33 apprentices were employed on the project, with a local labour spend of 75%.
£2.67 was reinvested in the Leeds economy for every £1 spent on the project (figures calibrated using the LM3 methodology), while there were also over 60 hours of educational engagement.
In order to reduce waste and save cost, Morgan Sindall deployed its Intelligent Solutions approach to alter the build sequence and ceiling details throughout the building so full-size plasterboards with no offcuts could be installed. This resulted in the equivalent of over 1,000 boards being saved.
Other innovations on site resulted in 33.7 tonnes of CO2 being saved during the construction process — the equivalent amount of CO2 it would take to heat 12 UK homes annually.
Ben Hall, Yorkshire Area Director for Morgan Sindall said: “It’s been a real privilege for our team to play such an important role in creating outstanding extra care facilities for the people of Leeds and surrounding areas. During our build programme we’ve delivered a range of social value initiatives that have had a significant economic and social impact for the local community and it’s rewarding to know The Sycamores will continue to benefit the Woodlesford area and beyond for many years to come.
“Schemes like this are vital in addressing the shortage of dedicated housing for the UK’s ageing population. The Sycamores will create a safe and welcoming environment for residents and their families where they can be assured their needs will be met and they can live happy and fulfilling lives.”
