Homes boost on town site

7:00pm Sunday 2nd September 2007

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WORK has begun on the final phase of a multi-million pound housing and care redevelopment of Dorset county council's social services campus in Christchurch.

After replacing and refurbishing the Juniper Centre and adjoining social services local offices and building a brand new 80-bed rest home nearly 60 new homes are taking shape on the four-acre site off Jumpers Road.

Bure House at the heart of the current building project will provide 41 one- and two-bedroom flats plus three specially adapted flats for disabled people available to rent when the scheme is completed in January 2008.

The Bure House sheltered flats complex has been devised by East Dorset Housing Association in partnership with Christchurch borough and Dorset county councils to accommodate people in need of help to live independently while having 24-hour care support.

Each resident will have a self-contained flat adapted for wheelchair access and other needs with the added support of a 24-hour car support, lunchtime meal service in the dining room, communal lounge, hairdressing salon, laundry, battery car store and guest room for visiting friends and relatives.Dorset county council's cabinet member for adult and community services Cllr David Crowhurst said: "This is a really exciting development that will enable vulnerable people to live independent lives whilst having the care and support when they need it."

"This is ideal for those who need some care and support but do not want go into a residential care home."

Nick Fry of East Dorset Housing Association added: "We are delighted to be involved with this prestigious project as partners of Christchurch council."

"This scheme will help to provide much needed affordable homes for older people in Christchurch."

The development also includes 12 flats for key workers, such as nurses and care workers, as well as six shared ownership units.

Anyone interested in living at Bure House should contact Christchurch council on 01202 495000 for information, application forms and needs assessment.