91 homes to be created on Harleston housing estate

Norfolk County Council has unveiled plans to join forces with Saffron Housing Trust to build houses in Harleston, south Norfolk for people who want to live independently but with extra support. 

The plan would see the creation of an independent living scheme made up of 91 new flats, with a mix of 16 two-bed and 75 one-bed flats, on land east of Mendham Lane.

An artist's impression of the proposed independent living scheme in Harleston. Pic: Norfolk County Council (Image: Norfolk County Council)

The county council would put just over £4m into the scheme and adult social care bosses say it would save the council at least £500,000 each year.

Bill Borrett, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for adult social care. Pic: Norfolk County Council. (Image: Submitted)

Bill Borrett, the Conservative-controlled council's cabinet member for adult social care, said: "I am really pleased that we are delivering on our commitment to help people to live independently in their own communities for as long as possible.

"That’s why we’re continuing to invest in Independent Living schemes like these, which give people the confidence of knowing that care is on hand if they need it."

The council’s cabinet will meet on Monday (March 6) where officers are recommending that councillors agree to provide just under £4.1m to Saffron Housing so the scheme can be built.

The Harleston scheme would be the fourth such scheme in Norfolk, following ones in Fakenham and Acle. One in Stalham is being built and the council hopes construction in Harleston will start in June 2024.

Demand analysis has shown Norfolk needs 2,842 Independent Living units by 2028, with an unmet need in south Norfolk for 360.

Independent Living supports people aged over 55, with care provided on-site.

Properties can be owned or rented and are available to those who pay for their own care and those who are funded by the council.