HOUSING Trust bosses aim to have everyone currently living in Knutsford housing which is to close in a new home within 12 months.

The pledge from Peaks and Plains Housing Trust comes in the wake of news that Winstanley House and nearby bungalows on Warren Close are to close.

Winstanley House in Northwich Road is a retirement housing complex consisting built in 1975, and 33 residents will be rehomed from 45 properties across Winstanley House and the bungalows on Warren Close.

Peaks and Plains carried out a survey of about half of its homes between September 30 and December 20 to check on their general condition and to see what improvements it needed to plan for in the future.

Following the survey Trust interim chief executive Mark Howden met with all the residents on January 31.

Mr Howden said: “Following an in-depth stock condition survey and first-hand conversations with residents, our Board has agreed on our recommendation to close Winstanley House along with the nearby bungalows on Warren Close.

“The wellbeing of our residents is our priority and the Trust will provide the necessary resources to support residents to find new suitable and affordable homes. 

“As part of this commitment, we’ll be working with our partners at Cheshire East Council to fast-track these tenants on Cheshire Home Choice.

“We will continue to work closely with all residents and their support networks during this period of change and welcome any concerned parties to contact the Trust for more information.”

A Trust spokesman said: “Working in partnership with Cheshire East Council, the Trust will aim to have everyone in a new home within the next 12 months, with the hope that the majority will be settled in advance of that.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, Peaks and Plains exists to provide affordable homes and services to the local community.

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“Given the age, design and condition of these properties, it was the Trust’s recommendation to its Board on January 21 that the level of investment required would only fix some of the issues in the short term, and it would be in the residents’ best interest for the Trust to find new homes for those currently living in these properties.

“Future plans for the sites are still under early consideration, but the Trust will deliver a mixture of general needs social housing and affordable homes to better service the current and future local need.”

Councillor Laura Jeuda, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for adult social care and health, said: “We have been informed by Peaks and Plains Housing Trust of their intention to close a number of sheltered housing units in Knutsford and Macclesfield.

“Naturally, this is disappointing news as this will impact on a number of older residents in the borough.

"However, we will work with Peaks and Plains to support the managed transition of residents into alternative, appropriate accommodation.

“We understand the closures will be phased over several months and our housing team and adult social care team will seek to ensure that those impacted by this transition receive whatever care and support they may require.”