Much-needed homes, jobs and training opportunities are being created in Telford as part of an £11 million project by Sanctuary Group.

The housing and care provider is developing 86 extra care apartments for over 55s as well as 12 apartments specially designed for people with learning difficulties, in the suburb of Ketley.

A 500-strong workforce has begun work on the Ketley Park Road site as part of a £60m partnership with contractor Seddon to build more than 700 new homes in the Midlands.

As part of the latest project, six new apprenticeship posts will be created for local people and a number of apprentices, already working with national construction specialists Seddon, will be given the chance to continue their training on the Sanctuary site.

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Local suppliers will also be used wherever possible on the development and there will be grants available for local community projects.

In preparation for the work, an oak tree which was planted to mark the wedding of The Prince of Wales and Princess Diana has been relocated to the front of the development so that it can be seen by the whole community.

Andrew White, Sanctuary's Development Director - Commercial, said: "This is an ambitious project which will create much needed homes for older people in this part of Ketley. Sanctuary is dedicated to creating new jobs and apprentice posts at all our developments and this site is no different."

Ian Calder from Seddon said: "We're delighted to be creating apprentice training opportunities through this important housing scheme. Boosting local economies by providing new jobs and training is a central feature of our work with Sanctuary."

(CD/MH)