Planning permission sought for new Newcastle assisted living scheme

A local architectural firm has applied to Newcastle City Council for planning permission for a sustainable assisted living housing scheme at in Spital Tongues.

The scheme, designed by JDDK, will mainly provide housing targeted at older people but will also include a limited number of family houses. This is the first time the Trust has provided housing for families.

Meldrum Construction have been working in partnership with St Mary Magdalene trust on an innovative framework of continuous improvement and upgrades to its existing homes over the last two years and are looking forward to delivering further value for the trust on this unique development.

The application proposes the demolition of the existing three blocks of 1960’s apartments at the top of Richardson Road and their replacement by three two storey, three bedroom homes for families and one block of 15 accessible one bedroom apartments for older people who live an independent lifestyle.

JDDK Project Architect, Gavin Wu, explained: “The proposal, which was developed and amended after community consultations in August and September, is for a highly sustainable development using a ‘fabric first’ approach which will create highly insulated homes with heating by air source heat pumps powering LST radiators.

“Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery ensures no heat is wasted and a steady supply of fresh air internally.”

“The three family homes enjoy south facing gardens with a patio and shed for cycle storage provision with rear access for added convenience of circulation.

He concluded: “The layout also features future adaptability through Lifetime Homes Standards with accessible WC for future shower adaptability, an aperture for a future through-floor lift, stair lift and temporary bedspace in the ground floor living space.”

A decision on the Planning Application is expected later next year.