South Tyneside’s New Extra Care Communities Taking Shape

Construction is continuing on two flagship Extra Care developments in South Tyneside.

Together, the schemes will provide more than 200 affordable, modern homes designed for older people and those with additional support needs.

The developments are being delivered in partnership between South Tyneside Council and Karbon Homes to help address the need for specialist accommodation in the borough.

Construction of Griffin Court in Hebburn town centre is on schedule to complete this Autumn, with the roof now in place and the building becoming watertight ahead of the next phase of internal and external works starting.

Once finished, Griffin Court will offer 95 high quality apartments, including 17 specialist homes designed for people living with dementia, alongside communal lounges, activity spaces and a bistro café open to the public – all designed to support independence, reduce isolation and create a vibrant community hub.

Work is also progressing well on the second Extra Care development at Benton Road, South Shields following its start on site late last year.

Over the winter months, earthworks and stone pile installation were completed, followed by foundations and sub structure blockwork. Installation of the structural steel frame for the single-storey sections of the building is almost complete.

This second scheme will provide 124 modern apartments across four storeys and set around a central courtyard. 25 of the homes are designed specifically for people with dementia.

Both developments are being delivered by Robertson Construction North East.

Cllr Ruth Berkley, Lead Member for Adults, Health and Independence at South Tyneside Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see such strong progress on these two major developments.

“Extra Care plays a vital role in our Adult Social Care and Commissioning strategy, reducing reliance on residential care by giving people the support they need to retain their independence, stay connected to their communities and enjoy a better quality of life.

“These schemes will make a real difference to local people, offering modern, affordable homes alongside facilities that promote wellbeing, social connection and dignity.”
Both schemes are available to those over the age of 18 with additional needs for independent living.

Jon McDonald, Head of Supported Housing at Karbon Homes, said: “It’s great to see the Hebburn development taking shape, a scheme right at the heart of the community that will help local residents with additional support needs to live independently for as long as possible.

“Supported housing schemes like these are a vital part of the wider housing system, and the strong partnership we’ve formed with South Tyneside Council has enabled us to understand the needs of the local area and delivery a scheme that fills that gap.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the scheme complete towards the end of the year.”