CONSTRUCTION has began on a new development of affordable homes for over 55s in Oxfordshire.

County councillors took part in a ceremony to officially launch the start of work on the new 80 apartment development on the land off Greenwood Way at Great Western Park, Didcot.

The three-storey scheme is being developed by Housing 21, a leading not-for-profit provider of retirement living and extra care for older people of 'modest means', and has received funding from the Oxfordshire Housing and Growth deal.

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Councillor Jenny Hannaby, Oxfordshire County Council's cabinet member for adult social care, said: "I was delighted to be able to attend the groundbreaking event in Didcot.

"Extra care housing is something I have felt very passionately about and have been promoting in the county for some time now.

"This exciting new scheme will even provide more support for residents countywide."

The development will provide 60 rented apartments and 20 shared ownership apartments for people over the age of 55.

On site facilities will include a café/ bistro, hair salon and communal lounge for both residents and local people.

With work set to be completed in December next year, the first residents are expected to start moving in from early 2023.

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Emily Smith, chair of the Oxfordshire Growth Board, added: "I am delighted to see the progress of this excellent project which will help improve the lives of our older local people.

"Extra care housing offers an excellent way for people to stay in their local area and maintain their independence while being able to access around the clock care and support."

For more information about Housing 21, visit www.housing21.org.uk