Retirement homes “progressing” despite setbacks caused by weeks of heavy rain
A large redevelopment to create retirement homes is “progressing” despite setbacks caused by weeks of heavy rain, a councillor has said.
Assheton Court in Portchester is being rebuilt, but the 60-apartment scheme has faced weather-related delays.
Updating councillors at the meeting of Fareham Borough Council on Thursday, May 14, Cllr Fred Birkett said builders had been working through “exceptionally wet weather” to keep the project moving.
The Conservative executive member for housing said: “At Assheton Court in Portchester, the redevelopment works are progressing in the exceptionally wet weather – I don’t know if anybody has noticed that.”
Cllr Birkett said the roof on the west block – including solar PV panels and air source heat pumps – is due to be completed next month.
Once that work is done, scaffolding will start to come down as the scheme progresses to the next stage.
The redevelopment has already attracted strong interest, with more than 70 people registering to move in, according to Cllr Birkett.
They include several downsizers, which could help free up much-needed family homes elsewhere in the borough.
Speaking during the meeting, he said: “The west block roof, including the [solar] PV panels and air source heat pumps, is due for completion next month [June], after which the scaffolding will begin to be removed.
“Over 70 customers have registered an interest in moving in, including downsizers which would free up housing accommodation.”
Initially, the scheme was earmarked for completion in the summer, or even autumn this year. However, the poor weather has pushed the date back. A specific date is yet to be confirmed.
Once completed, the Portchester site will provide 60 affordable housing apartments for people aged over 55. A mix of one and two-bedroom apartments will be available, alongside communal lounges and gardens.
Planning permission for the current Assheton Court redevelopment was granted on February 2, 2024.
This followed a previous application in 2023. The demolition of the previous building was completed by the council in early 2024.