A HOUSING association has unveiled £2 million plans to extend a popular sheltered housing scheme for older people in the centre of Hereford.

Railway Housing Association has submitted a planning application to Herefordshire Council to provide 14 additional homes at Great Western Court in Canonmoor Street.

The Association is investing over £2 million in the scheme, which will see the number of one-bedroom apartments increasing from 30 to 44.

Two of the apartments will be added in the existing building, with the other 12 being constructed in a new-build adjoining the 33-year-old complex.

Subject to planning approval, Railway Housing Association plans to start work on the new development in the summer, with completion 12 months later.

All the new homes will be rented to people aged 60 and over.

Railway Housing Association Chief Executive Anne Rowlands said: “We’re pleased to unveil these exciting new plans for our Great Western Court sheltered housing scheme.

“It’s always been a very popular scheme and by extending it we will be helping to meet the local need for more older person’s accommodation in Hereford and the surrounding area.

“Sheltered housing is perfect for people wishing to downsize because their current home no longer meets their needs.

“It enables people to remain living independently in a smaller and easier-to-manage home, with an onsite scheme manager.”

As well as building new homes, Railway Housing Association will also be extending the communal lounge parking.

Anne added: “Great Western Court has become a real community hub with a wide range of social activities for residents and the wider community.

“It’s location in the centre of town makes it perfect for older people and we expect the new apartments will be snapped up very quickly.”

Railway Housing Association is receiving £600,000 funding from Homes England towards the cost of funding the extension.