Kingston Council has approved plans for a pioneering housing development on Acre Road, delivering 45 new homes specifically designed for adults with autism or learning disabilities and older people. The project, described as a first for the borough, will consist of two distinct blocks: Hartington House and Campbell House.
Hartington House: Specialist flats for younger adults
Hartington House will feature 12 self-contained flats, a communal space, and overnight sleep-in arrangements for individuals aged 18 and over with autism or learning disabilities. The council's people committee unanimously agreed on June 23 to begin the procurement process for a care provider, with the contract valued at up to £6.2 million over five years, extendable by another five years.
Campbell House: Age-friendly homes for older residents
Campbell House will comprise 33 properties, including three accessible bungalows, for people aged 55 and older. According to a council officer's report, these will be the council's first purpose-built, bespoke accommodation for residents aged 55 or older, built to modern standards and future-proofed for ongoing adaptations, including assistive technology to support care provision.
Project timeline and lettings plan
The development is expected to be completed by next summer. The committee also approved a lettings plan, requiring all tenants to be on the council's housing register. Lib Dem councillor Sabah Hamed emphasised the project's importance for independent living, stating: "We want to make sure they remain connected to their community and they live independently, as I said it’s so important, but also that they’re connected to their families."
Unique accommodation for learning disabilities and autism
The council officer's report highlighted the uniqueness of the homes for residents with learning disabilities and autism, noting they are "genuinely unique in terms of the council’s existing accommodation offer." Designed to meet a broad range of needs, the homes will enable independent living with or without additional care, allowing the council to fulfill its Care Act responsibilities more cost-effectively and reduce reliance on out-of-borough placements.
