St Helens extra care scheme proposed

Architect Brock Carmichael has submitted a planning application on behalf of housing group Torus for an extra care housing scheme in St Helens.

The site is part of a wider masterplan developed by Brock Carmichael for Torus, which acquired the site fronting the junction of Atlas Street and Standish Street this year.

The scheme will comprise 109 one-bedroom and 21 two-bed apartments, a bistro and hairdressers that will be open to the public, along with associated facilities including gardens.

Bill Lacey, director of development at Torus, said: “This is the first project we’ve undertaken with Brock Carmichael and from the outset they seemed to understand our vision completely.

“Most developers focus on homes for first time buyers and growing families. Whilst that’s important, and indeed forms a large part of our development programme, we believe that there’s a real need for later life homes too.

“We were looking for something innovatively and sensitively planned and designed; homes developed as communities where older people can live sociable, fulfilling and healthy lives.”

Chris Bolland, managing partner at Brock Carmichael, added: “Our experience in housing schemes has led us to a design where we make the most of a site to develop a living space with extra care and all the safety, accessibility and security needs that involves, and which is also desirable and accessible for all.

“It should welcome residents and the local community alike and have a non-institutional feel to it. The designs included considerations from a sun path analysis as good, natural light is important to health and vitality.

“The northern and western part of the site provides private gated gardens including informal seating areas, BBQ positions, and a summer house. The perimeter boundary treatment creates a safe and accessible environment for its residents.”

A decision on the application is expected later this year. A contractor is yet to be announced to deliver the development, which is estimated at £13m.