VIDEO: Welcome for Webb Ellis Court, the new development for over 55s on the site of the former rugby club

Developers of Webb Ellis Court on Scalby Road say it is aimed at maximising independence for over 55s who need ongoing care, such as those with health conditions and the elderly.

They say the proportion of over 65-year-olds living in the Scarborough area is estimated to be around 28 per cent of the population - higher than the national average of 20 per cent.

This is expected to increase to 35 per cent over the next 15 to 20 years and is the fastest growing demographic in the borough.

Take a look inside Webb Ellis Court with these first-look photos

Webb Ellis Court - created by Home Group - includes 31 two-bed and 32 one-bed apartments.

As well as housing, the project also includes a range of on-site amenities, including a café, restaurant, guest accommodation, a hair and beauty salon, and space for local community groups to use.

There are almost 600 households currently on Scarborough Borough Council’s housing register who are aged over 55, with the majority requiring one-bed accommodation.

There is also high demand for family housing in the local area.

As older residents move into the new accommodation, Scarborough Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council hope suitable homes will become available to meet this demand.

Webb Ellis Court has been created in partnership with both councils, who jointly commissioned the project.

It has been built on land previously occupied by Scarborough Rugby Union Football Club.

Councillor Carl Maw, Scarborough Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities and Housing, said: “This development is the culmination of many years of work with public and private sector partners to bring forward a scheme that meets the housing and wellbeing needs of Scarborough’s older residents.

“We are proud of our involvement and really pleased that these high-quality homes are now available for affordable rent.

“We look forward to seeing Webb Ellis Court welcome its new residents soon and become fully integrated into the local community.”

Jemma Punch, the scheme manager, said: “This community wellbeing service is very different to traditional residential care as it integrates health, housing and social care to help maximise independence and wellbeing.

“Scarborough is one of our first services where we will deliver person-centred and reablement-focused personal care and provide a community hub that engages residents and local organisations.

“It will keep people active for longer, less isolated and empowered to do the things they love, while reducing their dependency on primary healthcare care services, such as GPs, by managing conditions through our service.”

North Yorkshire County Councillor Michael Harrison, Executive Member for Adult Services and Health Integration, added “We are delighted to see Webb Ellis Court open its doors. This has been an exciting and fruitful partnership with Home Group and the Borough Council.

“Extra care developments of this type are a crucial part of our ambition to help older and vulnerable people to live independently in their communities for as long as possible, and we are committed to their continued development across North Yorkshire.”

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