Work to construct supported living housing scheme in Swaffham gets under way

A special ground breaking ceremony took place this week to celebrate the start of building work at a new supported living housing scheme in Swaffham.

Golden Lane Housing (GLH), a national supported housing provider with more than 25 years of experience, was joined by Norfolk County Council, development partners HBV Group, design and build company ATEL Design and Build, support provider Avenues Group, and local stakeholders.

The development, which will be named Golden Court and be made up of 16 new homes, is designed for people of working age with care and support need.

It is part of a series of new homes to increase the availability of high-quality supported housing across Norfolk - with the county council providing £2.35million of capital funding for the project.

The 12 apartments and four bungalows were designed with accessibility, sustainability and independence in mind. The homes will provide “safe, modern living environments that empower people with additional needs to live more independently and be part of their communities”.

Tenants will receive support from Avenues Group, a trusted specialist provider of services for autistic people, people with a learning disability or those with acquired brain injury.

Cllr Alison Thomas, cabinet member for adult’s services at the county council, said: “At Norfolk County Council, ensuring residents maintain their independence, while also receiving the best possible support, is a priority for us.

“Residents who move into these homes will be supported to learn new skills, make new friends and actively contribute and participate in their community.”

Emily Collinson, director of development and growth for Golden Lane Housing, said: "We’re thrilled to be breaking ground on these two important developments, continuing the momentum from Mousehold Lane and delivering homes that will transform lives."

Jo Land, chief executive of Avenues, added: “At Avenues, we believe that everyone deserves to live in a place they call home, doing the things they love, as part of a community where they are truly recognised.

“Being specifically designed for people with disabilities and autistic people, these exciting new homes will go a long way to meet individual needs. We’re looking forward to supporting people to lead fulfilling lives here once building works are complete.”

Residents are expected to move in to the new Swaffham housing during summer 2026.

Oliver Carroll, development director at HBV Group, said: “We’re proud to be working with partners to deliver much-needed, high-quality homes for people with additional needs in Swaffham.

“This development reflects our shared commitment to creating sustainable, inclusive communities where people can thrive with the right support in place.

“It marks another positive collaboration with both Norfolk County Council and Golden Lane Housing, and we’re delighted to continue supporting the delivery of specialist supported living housing across the county.”

Neil MacKrell, construction director at ATEL Design and Build, said: “It’s great to officially launch work at Golden Court, a project that embodies our commitment to delivering quality, sustainable housing tailored specifically for people with additional needs.

“We're excited to contribute our expertise to a development that promises not just homes, but places where residents can genuinely thrive.”