Work begins on multi-million pound assisted living development in York

Work has started on a multi-million pound project in York to create accomodation for older people with additional support needs.

The Abbeyfield York is extending its existing site with new studio flats for older adults with dementia and assisted living needs.

The £6.1m scheme - designed by Brewster Bye Architects for The Abbeyfield York Society - will see a further 17 extra care and eight dementia care studio flats, created within a 2,500 sq m new-build annex next to the grounds of Abbeyfield’s extra care and sheltered housing scheme, Abbeyfield House on Regency Mews.

Caroline Newnham from The Abbeyfield York Society commented: “There is a real lack of suitable accommodation for older people across York and with an ageing population both regionally and nationally, this shortage will only continue to increase.

“We have been successfully operating our extra care and sheltered housing schemes in York for over 50 years. By purchasing and developing this parcel of land next door, we can expand our offering by incorporating a purpose-built annex of 25 homes adjacent to Abbeyfield House in this predominantly residential neighbourhood.

“This welcome development will help to ease some of the shortage of suitable residential accommodation for older people in York and the homes will be available on a social rented and market sale basis.”

Mark Henderson, from Brewster Bye Architects, added: “Having already worked with Abbeyfield on Fern House, one of the UK’s most advanced extra care and dementia centres, close to Bingley town centre, we thoroughly understand how to deliver the very best homes for older people with dementia and those that need extra support.

“Incorporating ‘HAPPI’ design principles, which include maximizing seating areas, and creating ample communal and shared facilities, as well as a strong connection with the outdoors, we have been very mindful of the dementia care requirements for this project.

“We have also consulted with the University of Stirling’s Dementia Design Audit Tool to inform the design of both the individual flats and communal spaces.”