Work on Ryhope supported housing scheme reaches key milestone

The topping out of the six supported bungalows for people with physical and learning disabilities brings the development a step nearer completion.

Built as part of Sunderland City Council's ongoing work to provide homes for those who are most at need, 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, Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration and Business at Sunderland City Council, said: "It's great to see work nearing completion on these six new bungalows, which are all about helping us to deliver more accessible properties for those who need them. 

"We've worked closely with colleagues in Adult Social Care, Sunderland Care and Support and the residents themselves to create homes that will meet their needs.

"The creative and innovative thinking from everyone involved has resulted in homes that are both personalised and technology enabled, enabling their residents to live as independently as possible."

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 12 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: "It is great to be working with Sunderland City Council on this project constructing six bungalows designed to provide comfortable and accessible living spaces that support individuals with specialised care needs.

"The works have reached a major milestone, with the completion of the roofing works. As work progresses on internal fittings, landscaping, and hard-standing areas, the project continues to prioritise the use of the local supply chain. This commitment to local suppliers reinforces the project's dedication to community investment and sustainable construction practices. We are really excited to see the final product come together and the positive impact it will have on the community."

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