Work will commence on a landmark, £18m Extra Care scheme in Cradley, West Midlands after contracts were signed between Loughborough-based contractor and developer, William Davis Ltd and Midland Heart, the largest housing and care organisation in the Midlands.

(L-R) Guy Higgins, managing director, William Davis Ltd and Carl Larter, director of assets, Midland Heart sign the constructors contract

The scheme, which is being developed in partnership with Dudley Council, will transform the land of the former Cradley High School, off Slade Road, into an 120 bed affordable apartment complex for the over 55s. Comprising a mix of one and two bedroom properties for rent and sale, the contemporary development will also include communal facilities such as a restaurant, shop, gym and well-being facility. Designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, 10% of the scheme’s energy will be provided from renewable/low carbon sources through the installation of a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) unit.

Guy Higgins, managing director, William Davis said: “Today’s contract signing marks the first milestone in the creation of a significant new development for Cradley. Delivering a scheme of this size requires experience, of which we have a proven track record, and enthusiasm, of which we have plenty!

“Over the coming months we look forward to witnessing the transformation of this site and, through close collaboration with our partners, local residents, schools and community groups, we hope to provide an exceptional facility that will become a benchmark for future Extra Care developments within the region.”

William Davis was selected for their experience in delivering large construction projects, especially in the affordable housing sector, including Broad Meadow, Midland Heart’s existing Extra Care scheme in Russells Hall, Dudley.

Carl Larter, director of assets at Midland Heart said: “Appointing William Davis ensures we are another step closer to providing independent accommodation and an inspiring lifestyle to transform the lives of local older people. This will be Midland Heart’s third Extra Care scheme in the borough with a further two to follow in accordance with Dudley Council’s Extra Care housing strategy.”

Plans for the development were submitted in November 2012 and approved in March 2013 after lengthy public consultation. Work has started on the first stages of preparing the land for development, including erecting fencing to maintain safe use of parkland throughout construction.