New homes in Hartlepool are providing a more independent, comfortable and secure life for over 55s.

Owned and managed by North Star housing association, the £1.5 million scheme has 16 new bungalows, with two of these specially designed for full wheelchair accessibility. The new builds are on previously undeveloped land on Eskdale Road in Hartlepool; providing specialist housing for those who need it most.

All of the new homes, developed by Gus Robinsons Developments, are highly energy efficient and benefit from their own private gardens. The wheelchair accessible bungalows were carefully considered throughout the design process and include specially adapted features designed to make life as easy and independent as possible. These include carports and height adjustable kitchens.

Local MP, Iain Wright, visited the new development and said: “It’s fantastic to see North Star making a £1.5m investment in our local community in Hartlepool.

“The new builds for over 55s at Eskdale Road are a welcome addition to the town’s housing stock, providing much-needed accommodation for older people and giving them the support they need to continue to lead independent lives in their own homes. I also welcome the fact that the builder and much of the work through the construction supply chain used Hartlepool companies and labour, providing a much needed boost to the town’s economy.”

Angela Lockwood, Chief Executive of North Star, said: “We’re delighted to provide such vital accommodation for local residents in Hartlepool. The bungalows are designed to meet the diverse needs of over 55s, and contain a range of features that help promote independence, choice and control.

“With the threat of funding cuts looming over us, it’s hard to see how developments like this will continue. There’s a real need for accommodation that’s adapted to meet the needs of an aging, evolving population, and we’re proud that we have been able to deliver this here at Eskdale Road in Hartlepool.

“Our approach has always been to provide housing that helps keep older and disabled people living independently through well-designed and well-maintained schemes, along with providing accommodation that bridges the gap for younger adults who have left care or need additional support.

“We want this to continue, and we want to be able to keep providing a range of housing options to meet the needs of the people living in our communities.”