Dorset partnership delivers affordable accessible homes

A new housing development by David Wilson Homes in Gillingham will see its new homes built with accessible features, thanks to a new partnership with East Boro Housing Trust (EBHT), part of the Aster Group.

East Boro, which specialises in housing and support services for the sheltered elderly, adults with learning disabilities and other vulnerable groups, has worked with David Wilson Homes to make accessible homes available at its Romans Quarter development on Common Mead Lane, Gillingham.

Accessibility features inside the homes are designed to help with independent living. This includes reinforced ceilings to help with the instalment of hoists and space for a future lift, lower-mounted electrical points, and increased space for wheelchair storage. Ground floor wet rooms are already adapted to wet rooms with reinforced walls for handrails and kitchens will be easily adaptable should adjustable worktops be required.

There will also be larger, easy access parking spaces in accordance with clear access zones, 1200mm to the sides and rear in addition to the standard sized parking space. 

Kevin Hodder, Partnerships and Engagement Director at Aster Group who also oversees East Boro’s development programme said: “As a renowned Dorset provider of specialist housing and support services we’re particularly excited that this new development will include a number of accessible homes.

“We know the difference this will make to those in our community who want to live independently.”

The 80-home development will also include 20 affordable homes, located in  a safe area in Dorset, full of historic, urban character. Surrounded by a stunning landscape setting, the development is close to supermarkets, sports facilities, schools, shops and pubs. Its road and rail connections also make it ideal for commuters, with the A303 and Gillingham train station nearby.

“Barratt David Wilson Homes is sensitive to the needs of the communities we build for,” said Tammy Bishop, Sales Director at David Wilson Homes Southampton division. “These homes provide additional facilities to help ensure that everyone at Romans Quarter can benefit from living in this forward-looking development.”

Launching soon, Romans Quarter will feature a mix of two, three, four and five- bedroom homes with direct access to 20 acres of green open space

The new accessible homes will be let in accordance with Dorset Council’s Housing Allocations policy which will prioritise those with accessibility needs before cascading out to others.