Milestone reached at Sittingbourne development

The Regis Gate development reached a major milestone on Wednesday (24 April) as the final roof tile was placed, celebrating the building’s ‘topping out’.

The extra care scheme in Milton Regis is a large investment in older persons’ housing in the Sittingbourne area.

Rydon is responsible for constructing the development for housing association AmicusHorizon, which will contain 51 generously sized homes for rent and shared ownership. The scheme, formerly known as Wyllie Court, started in May last year and is due for completion in October 2014.

The building will have spa bathrooms, a café, coffee area, lounges, therapy rooms and meeting rooms all open to residents and the public. Each apartment will be equipped with the latest assistive technology.

AmicusHorizon Chief Executive Paul Hackett had the honour of placing the final roof tile at the topping out ceremony. He was joined by staff and residents, as well as contractors and local dignitaries. All attendees then enjoyed a tour of the development that represents the future of extra care living.

Mr Hackett said: “Regis Gate is a great example of partnership working to deliver positive outcomes for local people.

“The scheme is a mixture of affordable home ownership and rent for people who need dedicated older persons' housing. Our partnership with the HCA (Homes and Communities Agency), Kent County Council and Swale Borough Council means we provide a range of services and facilities. This includes providing freshly cooked meals on site every day of the year.

“We're also providing respite care for carers needing a break. The scheme will be a hub for services for older people including hairdressing, treatment rooms, chiropody and a welcoming restaurant.

“I'm delighted the scheme replaces an outdated sheltered housing scheme which we're able to demolish and redevelop with funding from our partners.”

The mixture of one and two bedroom apartments is designed to make the most of natural daylight. The ground floor apartments will have access to paved patio areas. Those on the upper floors will have full balconies at the rear, with Juliette style balconies on the front facing elevations. All flats will benefit from sound deadening and double glazed windows.

James Dickens, Project Manager for Rydon said: "Regis Gate is a fantastic development that will provide specialist accommodation for retired people in Kent. We're pleased to be here today celebrating this construction milestone with AmicusHorizon.

"The project is bringing many benefits to the local economy during the construction phase and we have also been able to take on five apprentices, helping to kick start careers in the construction industry."

Regis Gate will provide 24 hour care packages. Residents will also be able to enjoy the landscaped, communal gardens and off street parking.

Pictured: Paul Hackett, Chief Executive of Amicus Horizon with James Dickens, Project Manager at Rydon

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