Eight young tradesmen from Cradley and the surrounding area have consolidated their construction careers working on an £18m Extra Care scheme in the village.

Lime Gardens, as the scheme has been named, is a 120-bed affordable housing complex currently under construction by Loughborough-based contractor and developer, William Davis Ltd on behalf of housing and care organisation, Midland Heart and Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council. To help local apprentices gain site experience and finish their qualifications up to NVQ Level 3, project partners offered training opportunities on site.

18-year-old Ryan Pawney, from Quarry Bank, completed his NVQ Level 2 in Bricklaying in November 2013 and is now employed by the sub-contractor who trained him. "I am happy with the 'hands on' experience I was able to gain on site; it meant I was able to finish my training and become fully qualified," said Ryan. "The fact that it has also led to a permanent job is brilliant."

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Situated off Slade Road on the land of the former Cradley High School, Lime Gardens has been designed to promote independent living for Dudley's over 55s. In addition to the quality affordable homes and apartments, the scheme will also feature communal leisure facilities such as shop, restaurant, library, gym, and well-being centre together with 24 hour care and support for residents.

Mark Chettleburgh, production director at William Davis commented: "Construction apprenticeships present viable career choices for young people and we are committed to promoting the benefits of 'earning and learning' across all our sites.

"It is particularly pleasing to be able to present opportunities for local craftsmen like Ryan, who take pride in making a tangible contribution to their community."

Lime Gardens is due for completion in Spring 2015.

(CD)