Flint extra care project approved

Flintshire County Council has approved John McCall Architects' design for a £9m extra care living complex for Pennaf Housing Group.

There will be 72 self-contained one and two-bed apartments and communal facilities built on the former Earl Lea site in Flint town centre.

As part of the work, four substandard maisonette blocks built in the 1960s have been demolished to make way for the new scheme.

The designs will see three wings arranged around a central courtyard to increase security and privacy.

Communal facilities will include a café, restaurant, hairdressers, sky lounge and multi-purpose rooms that can be used as a small cinema, to hold workshops and as a computer suite.

Sustainable measures include solar panels, rainwater harvesting, combined heating and power systems and a highly insulated, fabric first approach.

There remains development land for a further phase or alternative use.

Carl Grannell, director at John McCall Architects, said: "There is a long-term need for independent, extra care living in Flintshire and this high quality scheme will expand the choice available.

"It has been designed to complement the character of the old town centre and urban neighbourhood.

"Residents will benefit from secure living accommodation in a town centre location in walking distance of all local facilities like the library, sports centre, other housing and a retail park."