Council to consider additional investment of £35m in Independent Living Programme

Norfolk County Council is considering investing a further £35 million towards its Independent Living Housing Programme. 

Since its launch in November 2018, the programme has contributed capital funding towards 603 high-quality, modern apartments designed for people aged 55 and over who want to stay independent in their local communities in later life.  

Rising construction costs and new regulatory requirements have impacted delivery within the original £29 million capital budget. To enable delivery of the remaining 532 homes by the programme, Cabinet is being asked to approve the additional funding. These homes will help save the council money every year by avoiding the need for people to move into residential care.   

Identified demand for Independent Living housing in Norfolk reflects the ageing population, increasing prevalence of disability, and the growing number of residents wanting more independence in later life and seeking alternatives to traditional residential care. 

Councillor Alison Thomas, cabinet member for Adult Services at Norfolk County Council, said: "Norfolk County Council is fully committed to continue to support people to live independently, safely, and with dignity within their communities. Our Independent Living programme provides an affordable and accessible alternative to residential care. 

"If approved, this additional investment marks a signification step forward in our mission to offer bespoke housing that research has consistently shown leads to improved health outcomes, including fewer GP visits, reduce falls and enhanced wellbeing for our residents." 

Norfolk County Council's Cabinet will discuss the project when it meets on Monday 26 January 2026. 

Meadow Walk in Fakenham and Swallowtail Place in Acle have already opened, while construction is underway on schemes in Hunstanton, Harleston and Stalham and are all due to open their doors to residents over the next two years. There has also been a recently approved new development in South Wootton which has started on site this year.  

For more information visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/IndependentLiving.