WORK is fast progressing on a multi-million pound extra care housing development in Helmsley, with project partners meeting to mark the highest point of build.

The £8.1m, scheme, named Bransdale View, will provide 64 apartments, along with on-site care and support services for residents and community facilities including a lounge, restaurant, beauty salon and gardens.

It is being built on Ashwood Close by ENGIE’s regeneration business to provide housing for people aged over 55 and the development is on behalf of Housing and Care 21 – the UK’s largest not for profit provider of extra care homes.

Representatives of both organisations were joined by council officials for a topping out event to celebrate the key milestone of the highest development point and view progress so far.

Paula Broadbent, of ENGIE, said it was “an exciting and pivotal stage of the building process”.

The development is expected to open early next year.