Construction work is due to start on much-needed new homes in Gosport which will provide warden-assisted flats for the over 50s.

Thorngate Churcher Trust will be creating 30 new homes initially as part of its long-term commitment to providing affordable housing in Gosport.

Thorngate Churcher Trust chief executive Anne Taylor said a large grant from Homes England was the final piece of the jigsaw needed to begin work on the new homes in the borough.

Once infrastructure work has been completed the construction phase is expected to begin before the end of March with the first homes ready for occupation in June 2025.

The new flats are being built at a time of unprecedented demand in the borough and Anne said Thorngate’s own waiting list has more than 100 people looking for an assisted living home – the highest it has ever been.

“Our new development on the corner of Grove Road and Sealark Road in Gosport will provide safe, comfortable, and modern homes with communal facilities and warden support,” said Anne.

“We have worked closely with Homes England and Charity Bank to bring this development to a point where we can begin construction and the current level of demand reinforces how important it is to be able to provide as many homes as possible.”

“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,” said Colin Barns, senior manager – Affordable Housing Growth at Homes England.

“This investment through the Affordable Homes Programme does just that, enabling Thorngate Churcher Trust to build 30 much needed new homes that the people of Gosport can be proud of.”

The new homes will be built to the highest standards and the whole development has been designed to integrate into its surroundings with easy access to local amenities and public transport.

Jamie Hutchinson, Gosport Mayor and Hardway councillor said, “Thorngate’s development will provide much needed suitable accommodation for those who would benefit from additional support to improve their quality of life. As a trustee at the local community library and hub a number of library members who struggle living alone are excited at the opportunity to apply for this new scheme.”