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Extra care scheme completed in record time

14.10.2004

Westminster’s first ever extra care housing scheme, designed and project managed by leading architectural services practice PRP, has been completed ahead of programme and opens this week in Westminster. The building, for Notting Hill Housing Trust, is one of very few housing developments to use timber frame technology for a five-storey building.

The Penfold Street scheme incorporates 43 one and two bedroom extra care apartments and two shared apartments for residents with dementia in two blocks. The blocks are linked by a two-storey winter garden incorporating community facilities and activity spaces that open onto external garden areas.

“The scheme is at the cutting edge of accommodation for older people, and the design creates a light airy contemporary building. The decision to use timber frame helped the contractor to achieve an early completion three weeks ahead of programme,” said Nigel Collier associate at PRP project services.

The scheme will feature assistive technology – a passive monitoring system, which can be tailored to the individual needs of a resident. The infrastructure has been installed during construction and sensors can be added and individually programmed to respond to changes in a resident’s home - for example if a tap is left running or a resident falls out of bed. The technology will enable residents to maintain their independence whilst having the comfort of knowing that care and support is at hand if needed.

Kate Morton, Director of Supported Housing & Care at Notting Hill Housing Trust said: “ This is Notting Hill’s 5th extra care housing scheme and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Westminster Council. We will be providing high quality care and support to our residents in this unique tailor made development.”

“Westminster is delighted that this state of the art extra care scheme is now ready for occupation,” said Cllr Ian Adam, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Social Services. “We are sure that older people will enjoy the facilities offered and be able to live independent lives with as much support as they individually need.”