Supported homes complete in Ryhope

The new residential development on the site of the former St Cuthbert's Church is made up of six accessible supported bungalows that will allow residents to live more independently.

Taking its name from the church that once stood on the site, the development is now known as St Cuthbert's Close.

The bungalows have been built as part of Sunderland City Council's ongoing work to provide homes for those who need them most. Each bungalow will come with 5G infrastructure built-in, ready to incorporate assistive technology depending on client needs. 

The development is being supported by £660,000 funding from Homes England and is part of a council-led plan to deliver more supported properties for vulnerable residents. This includes more bungalows for people living with disabilities and providing specialist accommodation available for affordable rent. 

Councillor Kevin Johnston, Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration and Business, said: "I'm delighted to see work complete on these six new bungalows, delivering more accessible properties for those who need them in the city and making use of assistive technologies to enhance independence and improve quality of life.

"This is all about enabling our residents to live as independently as possible and supporting them to live in comfortable homes that meet their needs."

The three three-bedroom bungalows and three two-bedroom bungalows in Ryhope follow similar projects to provide accessible housing in Washington and at Hylton Road.

Matthew Wright, Manager - Affordable Housing Delivery, at Homes England, said: "As the Government's housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting ambitious housebuilders of all sizes to build those homes and communities.

"This investment through the Affordable Homes Programme does just that, enabling Sunderland City Council to build much needed new homes the people of Sunderland can be proud of."

The development has been built by North East based T Manners and Sons.

Derek Collinson, Contracts Manager at T Manners and Sons, said: "Delivering these bungalows has required close collaboration and a strong focus on accessibility to ensure every home meets the needs of future residents. While the project has presented its challenges, seeing the finished development is extremely satisfying.

"These homes will provide much needed supported accommodation, offering residents safe, high quality living spaces tailored to their individual needs, with the appropriate levels of care and support in place within their local community."

The first residents are expected to start moving into their new homes later this week.