An ambitious step change in care for the elderly was proposed in this new competition shortlisted courtyard development. It could be likened to a Grand Hotel yet included significant reuse of part of the existing obsolete almshouses. To provide an outreaching 'magnet' of social activities for the elderly throughout the locality an extensive range of amenities is proposed on the ground floor of the category 2 home including a surgery, health centre, library, support centre and hydrotherapy pool along with restaurant' garage for shop-rider buggies, and extensive sheltered external amenity.
Each individual category 2 dwelling is large with extensive storage. A range of low energy strategies was adopted. Rather than demolishing everything, a side of the existing almshouse quadrangle is retained, extended and refurbished to allow decanting and facilitate phased construction. New category 1 self-contained accommodation is provided in areas towards the street front. A new quadrangle lies between the new and existing buildings. This cheerful vibrant environment for the elderly or infirm from 55 upwards has been developed to be suitable irrespective of sex, orientation, race or creed.