Abbotswood name returns to Littlehampton

Abbotswood is a new £11m housing scheme now nearing completion on the site of the former home with the same title, in Station Road.

Described as a “pioneering” extra care housing facility, it is the first of its kind in Arun district.

It provides 62 flats for the over-60s, including 14 for shared ownership and six one-bedroom flats for people with learning difficulties, and is the result of a partnership between Arun District Council, West Sussex County Council and housing association Saxon Weald.

The partners say the care set-up will provide more than conventional sheltered housing, offering a tailored package of facilities and support to meet individual needs, and enabling people to live independently for as long as possible.

Facilities will include a dining room and café for use by residents and the wider community, spacious residents’ lounge, pamper suite, games room, inner courtyard garden and assisted bathing facilities.

Arun cabinet member for housing and community care Roger Elkins said: “Extra care housing provides people with more choice and independence.

“For the majority of people, the quality and design of the accommodation and the availability of care and support on site will ensure that they will be able to remain in their chosen home for the rest of their lives.”