Whitebeck Court

Blackley, Northwards Housing

Description of Scheme

Each of the 91 apartments in Whitebeck Court was completely rebuilt in the rennovation of the pre-existing tower block. Balconies were demolished during the refurbishment to create more space, new windows fitted, and solar panels installed. A new storey was built to house the Sky Lounge. The ground floor houses a council-run day centre with a TV lounge, cafe, IT suite, beauty salon and a room used by visiting GPs and a chiropodist.

Every floor has a unique colour scheme to help dementia sufferers recognise where they are. Wet rooms were installed for those with mobility problems, lifts were fitted with seats, and the communal gardens are kitted out with an outdoor gym, giant chess set and greenhouse.

Where Is It?

Whitebeck Court is in Charlestown, north Manchester, five miles north of the city centre. It is at the heart of a residential area which has good local amenities. There are shops nearby, a post office, gym and a health centre. A new superstore and library will be completed on the nearby junction of Victoria Avenue East and Rochdale Road in 2011.

Residents Information

"It was taking me three days just to do the back garden in our old three-bedroomed house... this is just right... The views out over Manchester take your breath away."

Proximity

The area is well served by public transport and there is easy motorway and city centre access. The North City District Centre is about a mile away and provides more shops and leisure facilities - including a swimming pool and gym. There are fantastic parks nearby with the "Green Flag" rated Heaton Park and Boggart Hole Clough within easy reach.

Relevant Local Strategy

The development of Whitebeck Court is part of a strategic move from residential care to the promotion of independence through provision of extra care sheltered housing. The Whitebeck Court development replaced an aging and outdated care home on the same site and is part of the Councils 'Future Living Needs for Older Persons' strategy.

There was a strategic need from the council as North Manchester - and particularly Higher Blakeley and Charlestown - has the highest proportion of elderly people in the city.

Useful Local Statistics

There are estimated to be 52,200 people over 65 in Manchester, of whom over 50% are lone pensioners, and nationally 30 per cent of households are headed by an older person.

Care Services

Extra Care scheme with on-site care staff (24 hours / 7 days), non-resident management staff and community alarm service

Facilities

• Lift
• Lounge
• Restaurant
• Laundry
• Guest facilities
• Garden
• Conservatory
• Community centre
• Hobby room
• Activities room
• Cafe
• Shop
• Hairdressing salon
• Library

Address

Moorway Drive
Blackley
Manchester
M9 7HR

Scheme Location Map