Stokesley-based SPA Architects Delivers Ambitious £16m Scheme for Affordable and Accessible Housing

A major £16m housing development designed by Stokesley-based architects SPA is to deliver affordable, accessible and luxurious accommodation to the over 55s.

The Castlestead View Extra Care development in Oxenholme near Kendal has been completed by Housing 21, a leading national provider of Retirement Living and Extra Care, in partnership with Cumbria County Council, Homes England, and construction firm EQUANS.

The 104 new homes include accessible, sheltered and supported accommodation, comprising 80 one and two-bedroom apartments for rent and shared ownership and 24 bungalows for sale, with on-site care available for residents, as required.

SPA Architects met the challenge of designing a housing development that had several unique challenges from the start. They were presented with a difficult site with a major slope toward the west, underlying rock and the main west coast railway line located at the west boundary of the site.

Housing 21 had purchased the land from another developer who had previously obtained planning permission for such development but were unable to deliver the scheme economically. SPA Architects were asked to re-model the Extra Care element of the scheme to suit Housing 21 requirements and to work with EQUANS to ensure an economically viable scheme could be delivered.

Nigel Peacock, partner at SPA Architects, said: “We are immensely pleased to have worked with Housing 21 and EQUANS on this challenging but exciting project which is a great testament to all those involved in the project.”

Deborah Hope, head of development at Housing 21, said: “We are delighted to have worked in partnership with SPA Architects, Cumbria County Council and EQUANS who have successfully completed the construction of Castlestead View.

“It will provide much-needed, affordable accommodation, with care when required, for the locals in Oxenholme. We can’t wait to start welcoming residents and inviting the local community to enjoy our facilities.”

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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