As the completion date for Dovestone Gardens draws closer, Oliver Ryan, MP for Burnley, Padiham and Brierfield, was given a site tour of the flagship extra care facility for over 55s.
The 90-minute tour guided Mr Ryan and a group of Calico colleagues through the 93-apartment complex, which offers a range of one and two-bedroom flats, communal meeting spaces and an on-site bistro.
Oliver, who was impressed by the build quality, innovative security methods and sheer scale of the construction, said: “It’s a big development for this part of town – and it’s important to Burnley because we have a big extra care need in our community.
“Dovestone Gardens is going to provide much needed beds and support for people who need that extra care”.
The bistro will provide a space for residents, members of the public and visitors from Burnley General with an eatery that focuses on healthy meals and bringing the community together.
Whilst being guided around, the tour attendees were talked through the sustainable building processes and environmental impact of the project.
The locality of the workforce was another highlight, as many operatives working on site live in the local area. The project also provided a great opportunity for many local apprentices who have gained their skills and qualifications during the build.
Oliver, who has been the town’s MP since July this year, continued: “Everyone who has seen the building over the last couple of years driving past will see that this is a top-quality building. You could drop it anywhere in the world and be proud of it. But it’s in Burnley, right next to the hospital. It’s completely exceptional”.
Oliver concluded: “We should be thankful to Calico, Ring Stones and everyone who has been involved in this for making this happen. It’s going to make a massive difference. Not only to the community, but to people who need that extra care and support”.
Dovestone Gardens is set to open later this year. The £16 million development, which is being funded by Homes England, is designed to support people over 55 with extra care or support needs to live independently in their own home.
