A topping out ceremony has been held to mark a major milestone in the construction of 61 new Extra Care homes in Stalham, Norfolk.
The development’s name, Albion Gardens, was chosen following a competition at Stalham High School, where students were tasked with coming up with suggestions for the new scheme.
The project will comprise 43 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom self-contained apartments, all featuring private balconies, available to rent for local people aged 55 and over.
The homes have been developed by Housing 21, a leading national provider of retirement living and Extra Care housing.
Tracy Jones, Head Of Commissioning and Service Integration at Housing 21, said: “It is a pleasure to be working in partnership again with Norfolk County Council, North Norfolk District Council, HCC Contractors and TSA Riley on this important development.
“This site will provide much-needed Extra Care housing for people aged 55 and over, offering high-quality, accessible apartments designed to support independent living, with integrated care delivered on site.
“The scheme will create a welcoming community, with shared facilities for residents and visitors, alongside a dedicated on-site manager to support day-to-day life. It represents an important step in delivering safe, supportive homes for the local community.”
Those living at Albion Gardens will benefit from an on-site care team available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, enabling them to live independently while having care and support available when needed.
The development will also include a range of communal facilities, including a restaurant, residents’ lounge, hair salon, laundry room, guest suite, assisted bathroom and mobility scooter store.
Albion Gardens is being delivered with grant funding from Homes England, Norfolk County Council and North Norfolk District Council and is scheduled to open in the spring of 2027.
Scott Hussey, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at Norfolk County Council, said: “Schemes such as this play a crucial role in helping people maintain their independence for longer, while ensuring that care and support are available when needed.
“As demand for adult social care continues to grow, developments like Albion Gardens provide an important alternative to residential care. They enable people to remain in their local communities – living in safe, accessible homes while retaining greater independence.
“By providing the right homes in the right locations – alongside flexible care and support that can adapt as people’s needs change – we improve their quality of life.”
Councillor Jill Boyle, North Norfolk District Council Portfolio Holder for Housing and Peoples Services, added: “I am delighted to see the progress made with this development. It will be a great addition to the range and quality of housing for older people in North Norfolk, and a great boost for Stalham.”
