Whitebeam Gardens
With its green credentials and an eye to the future, the environment was a key factor when designing this innovative development.
Designed by Doncaster architects, Devcom, Whitebeam Gardens consists of six self-contained supported living units with on-site staff accommodation. The units are designed for people who find themselves in assessment and treatment units which are not suited to their needs.
As the name suggests, the whole site has gardens to the front and rear which residents can landscape and personalise as they wish. The design is sensitive to nature and its surroundings, allowing wildlife to flourish.
To encourage wildlife and help cope with drainage from excessive rainfall, which is becoming more common, Whitebeam Gardens features a ‘green roof,’ a roof with grass and sedum plants on it. This helps slow down surface water, reducing the risk of flooding.
Insulation, above the standard building control requirements, was a priority when building the development so that running costs could be kept down. Devcom also encourages contractors to use recycled materials where possible.
This development is a design that has evolved over the past 10 years, following the award-winning Holly Lodge project. Its design has been nationally adopted by other support providers for similar projects due to its innovative features and assistive technology.
Like Holly Lodge, Whitebeam Gardens has been designed to increase the independence of the people living there and its gardens are an ideal outdoor space for getting in touch with nature and improving wellbeing.
Jointly funded by NHS England, Durham Council and Choice Support, who is the landlord, the project started in November 2022 and was completed In December 2023.
Housing developments
We are currently focusing our building development to meet the NHS Transforming Care programme.
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We provide support to people living in their own homes. Where you live may be described as a service in registered care, supported living or outreach. To us, what is most important is that it’s your home.
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For 40 years Choice Support has been providing services for autistic people, people with learning disabilities and/or mental health needs.
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