A MANAGER has been appointed to run a £6.5m assisted living housing development for older people.

Sharon Sykes, who has previously overseen the opening of an extra care scheme in Houghton-le-Spring, has been announced as the scheme manager for The Elms in Chester-le-Street, a development of 52 apartments and six bungalows.

She said: “The experience I gained during my previous roles will be invaluable when it comes to the opening and successful running of The Elms.

“My focus is on helping to create a really vibrant and positive community, offering help and support when needed while still promoting independence.

“I think the best part of this job will be seeing the difference a scheme like this will make to people’s lives – I can’t wait to welcome the new residents through the doors next month.”

The Elms will be owned and managed by Cestria Community Housing, with properties available for affordable rent, shared ownership and outright sale to people aged 55 and over who have a housing or care and support need.

Apartments and bungalows have been designed to allow residents to maintain their independence as their health needs change, providing self-contained accommodation with access to on-site facilities including a café, hairdressing salon, IT suite, laundry, allotment and community exhibition space.

Four semi-detached bungalows have already been released for sale, with three of them already reserved. A further 14 two-bedroom apartments and two wheelchair adapted bungalows have now also been released for sale.