Bungalows offer independence to disabled residents in Grimsby
Residents at Stamford Homes’ award-winning Freshney Green development are enjoying a new, more independent lease of life – thanks to specially-designed bungalows.
Peter and Shirley Proctor, and Raymond and Mary Skelton, have lived in this area of Grimsby for a combined 80 years - as tenants of Shoreline Housing Partnership.
Now, following a complete transformation of the estate where they once lived, each couples has moved into their own state-of-the-art bungalow – purposely-designed to give disabled residents increased independence in their own home.
Technical bosses at Stamford Homes believe the two bungalows at the inspirational Freshney Green development in the heart of Grimsby are the only ones of their kind in the area.
They have been built to the Government’s Code 5 standard for new housing, taking into account high levels of energy efficiency and special features.
The reason for this is that the two-bedroom bungalows are suitable for people with all forms of disability – from minor to total.
User-friendly features built into the design include:
- a wet room with sanitary ware adaptations and hand rails
- solar panel roof
- extra wide access from room to room
- wheel chair access
- timber frame with enhanced insulation
- specially adapted work surfaces and moveable units in the kitchen
- specially designed oven and hob
- low level toggle light and other switches to allow easier use
- triple glazing
- access to a community garden with raised beds, seating, scented planting and fruit trees.
The Skeltons have lived on what was formerly the Yarborough estate for 35 years, and the Proctors for 45 years.
Amazingly, the two women used to work together at the local fish and chip shop many years ago, and were reunited again during the handing over of the keys.
Shoreline tenant Mary Skelton said: “Shoreline and Stamford Homes have been fantastic.
“We’re over the moon, the bungalow is lovely and we’re both looking forward to a long and happy retirement in our new home.”
Stamford Homes sales director Steve Woomble said: “The building of these bungalows has been a huge coup for us, and is further evidence of Freshney Green being a particular inspiring and sustainable new homes development. We are delighted to welcome both couples back to their familiar – albeit regenerated – surroundings.”
Shoreline Housing Partnership Freshney Green manager Martin High said: “This is more good news for Freshney Green, these tenants have lived on the estate for a long time, and it is pleasing to see that they will be moving into a custom built bungalow which meets their need, and also be near to other members of their close family.”
At the 2009 What House? Awards Freshney Green was voted top in the Best Joint Venture Scheme category, with judges praising the collaboration between Stamford Homes and Shoreline Housing Partnership.
For more information, visit stamford-homes.co.uk.
