Work completed on 44 extra care apartments

An Extra Care development for people over the age of 55 in Boston Spa has successfully completed construction work this week.

Thanks to a collaboration between Housing 21, Leeds City Council and Vistry Partnerships, work was able to safely continue over recent weeks.

Box Tree Court is Housing 21’s first Extra Care scheme in Boston Spa and will provide accommodation for local people over the age of 55.

The development supported by Homes England and Right to Buy funding from Leeds City Council, will offer 44 one and two bedroom apartments for affordable rent and shared ownership.

It has been designed to promote independent living in a community setting, with access to 24/7 on-site care if this is required.

There is a communal lounge, activity room, treatment room and communal gardens for residents and their visitors.

Residents will also benefit from a range of on-site facilities, including a café/bistro, which will offer a take away service, and hair salon.

All communal areas of the scheme are accessible to visitors subject to local restrictions.

Jane Edwards, housing and care manager at Box Tree Court, said: “I am excited to start moving residents in over the next few weeks.

“We have faced challenges along the way, but no one could have predicted a pandemic!

“I am so proud of our teams for ensuring building work could continue safely for those in need of a new home with good quality care and support.

“There’s no denying this scheme was needed in Boston Spa as we are opening with very few apartments left for rent. We can’t wait to start getting everybody settled into their new homes.”

Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, said: “Box Tree Court will provide much-needed specialist accommodation for older people, and we are delighted to have been able to support Housing 21 to deliver this scheme.”

Cllr Rebecca Charlwood, Leeds City Council’s executive member for health, wellbeing and adults, said: “I am very pleased to see the opening of Box Tree Court as one of the many housing-with-care developments the council is supporting.

“We know older people still want the independence of their own front door but the reassurance that support is readily available if they need it.”

Jason Green, director of operations at Vistry Partnerships Yorkshire, said: “It has been a pleasure working with Housing 21 to deliver Box Tree Court.

“This year has certainly provided unprecedented challenges, but we are extremely proud of the scheme and hope people really enjoy living there.”