'Much needed' £6.6m supported living development in Portsmouth approved

Plans for the blocks in Hillsley Road, in Paulsgrove, that will include 13 flats for 28 adults with physical disabilities or learning difficulties were unanimously approved during a council meeting yesterday (July 22).

The part-three, part-four storey blocks will be built on the site of the former dementia care home Longdean Lodge that was demolished in 2015.

It is also planned that two communal spaces will be provided for residents and two small staff sleeping rooms to ensure support staff are always on site.

Speaking at a virtual planning committee meeting Councillor Lee Hunt said: 'I welcome this application here to house people in supported living. I don't think the bulk of the building is too much.

'These will be very happy homes for people allowing them to live an independent life. They are much needed.'

Cllr Donna Jones agreed. 'While the building is of a substantial bulk it’s an area in the city of high density of housing so it is in keeping.

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'As Cllr Hunt said this is really very much needed for the more vulnerable people in our community. I am very happy to support this.'

Cllr Terry Norton added: I think it looks good, I think the design is pleasing.'

Portsmouth City Council’s housing boss, Councillor Darren Sanders, gave funding for the the project the green light in February last year, but it needed planning permission before work could begin.

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