An extra care scheme, built by the Leadbitter Group, in Woodley, Berkshire has won a National Housing Innovation Award. Alexandra Place, an apartment complex for the over 55s was named ‘Most Innovative Supported/Sheltered Housing Scheme’ at a ceremony at the Millenium Gloucester Hotel in Central London.
Alexandra Place, which is managed by Central & Cecil, with Housing 21 providing on-site care, consists of 64 one and two bedroom apartments for over 55s. It is designed to meet the needs of older people and offers varying levels of care and support on-site, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Resident Carol Lucas said: “All the residents are thrilled that Alexandra Place has won this award. The scheme has only been open a short time and it’s great that it’s been recognised for all the hard work that has gone into it. The apartments here are beautiful. If I want company I can come downstairs and mingle. If I want peace and quiet I can relax in my apartment. There is always something to do. I take part in the Pilates classes which are part of the Alexandra Club activities. I also join in the arts classes and other activities such as the drama party nights.”
Alexandra Place contains a wide range of facilities for residents including an exercise room, accessible spa bath, landscaped garden, shop, hairdressers and IT suite. A number of activities are also available as part of the ‘Alexandra Club’ including resident-led Wii Fit classes, snooker clubs, events such as pyjama parties, ‘Betty’s Bingo’, aromatherapy and arts and crafts.
John Parry, Operations Director of Leadbitter’s Central Housing division, said: “We are delighted that Alexandra Place has won this award. It is testament to the way in which intelligent building design can benefit the lives of older people in the UK, and we are glad that we could utilise our expertise in the care sector to deliver this magnificent scheme.”
Julia Ashley, Central & Cecil’s Executive Director Commercial Services, said: “It was a great pleasure to work so constructively with our partners to develop Alexandra Place and a delight to have received this award, recognising Alexandra Place for its quality services for residents and the local community.”
Alexandra Place is also in the final three of the Pinders Healthcare Design Awards, having been recognised in the Best Independent Living Design category. Winners will be announced at a ceremony at Lords Cricket Ground on 22nd March.
