A new state-of-the-art adaptable supported living and general needs scheme in Knowsley has been completed.
Dinas Lane was created by housing association Prima Group in partnership with Knowsley Council to promote an inclusive environment.
The £3.6m scheme sees two blocks providing 20 apartments available at affordable rent, which were designed following collaboration with residents and the council.
The first block called Fern Lodge has 11 apartments, four of which are fully wheelchair accessible that feature powered door access, fall and rise kitchens and dual access wet rooms.
A supported living block called Bracken Court has nine apartments, enabling vulnerable residents to live independently with person-centred support delivered on site.
An onsite hub facilitates the delivery of support to residents and acts as a core base for wider community services.
Prima Group’s Development Programme Manager, Robbie Mannion, said: “Dinas Lane is a really important scheme that helps a mixed community lead more comfortable lives in modern, purpose-built homes.
“What truly sets this development apart is the collaborative approach of partners to deliver tailored solutions and unlike typical schemes that target a single user group, it caters for Knowsley residents with diverse needs.
“It provides general, specialist, accessible and adaptable housing for wheelchair users and visitors with disabilities while the supported housing element reduces reliance on social services by fostering stable, inclusive communities through integrated support.”
Cllr Del Arnall, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, added: “I’m delighted to see this scheme complete, providing much-needed supported living and general needs accommodation for our residents.
“Working in partnership with Prima Group, we’ve also been able to create a greater choice too for residents, helping them to live independently.”
Built on brownfield land that was previously used as a milk bottling and distribution plant, it has transformed a derelict site with designs respectfully fitting into existing surroundings.
Every apartment has a Switchee smart heating controller so residents can manage their heating efficiently and reduce energy bills.
The scheme, built by Liverpool based SME contractor Wellcare Construction, includes eight communal electric vehicle charging points and dedicated facilities for e-bikes and mobility scooters to promote low-carbon transport.
Outside, residents can enjoy large communal gardens designed to provide diverse wildlife habitats.
Prima Group’s development is in an excellent location being just a five-minute walk to Page Moss high street and close to bus stops that take people across Knowsley and the Liverpool city region.
Funding support saw Homes England provide £1.25m and £51,000 from Knowsley Council.
Dinas Lane has been shortlisted in the Housing Development of the Year category of the Knowsley Business Awards.
