CHOICE Housing has spent £540,000 to upgrade its Metropole sheltered living scheme in Derry, which includes 27 apartments designed specifically for older people.
The investment includes a full revamp of both the apartments and communal areas, aimed to revitalise, and transform the existing facilities.
The upgrades included comprehensive refurbishment works to all internal and external elements, including new kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and doors.
Fire safety upgrades were also undertaken, including upgrading the existing fire detection system to meet new requirements and fire compartmentation works.
Andrew Lamont, head of planned maintenance at Choice, said: “As part of our £20m capital investment programme, there is a commitment to continuously upgrade our current housing stock to ensure that the properties meet the highest standards.
“The Metropole is a well-established scheme in the heart of the city and this significant investment will ensure the scheme not only meets the evolving building standards but the changing needs of our tenants.
“All works were carried out in consultation with tenants, and we are pleased that the programme was delivered in a timely manner with as little disruption to their lives as possible.”
The work programme was completed by Michael Donaghy (Painting & Decorating) Ltd, commencing in April and fully completed this month.
Choice provides a mix of supported, sheltered and general needs housing across Northern Ireland, providing over 12,000 homes across the region.
Plans are currently in place to develop 800 new homes over the next decade at a site close to Crescent Link retail park in Derry. The first phase will provide 190 new social homes, with construction well under way.
