A new development featuring specialist homes tailored to residents' needs has officially opened. Previously known as Biddick School, the Washington Old School building had stood vacant for 20 years. Sunderland City Council has now restored and expanded the premises to create 15 specialised apartments for vulnerable adults.

The new apartments were completed by Brims Construction after being developed by the council's Housing Development Team as part of plans to deliver more homes for the residents most at need in the city. Under these plans, the city council is providing much-needed homes and one-storey accommodation for people living with disabilities as well as older residents.

All apartments at the Old School House benefit from a high-quality specification developed with the end user in mind and the development boasts a landscaped courtyard for residents to enjoy, including seating designed by a local artist.

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Graham King, Director of Adult Services and Chief Operating Officer of Sunderland Care and Support, said: "These homes have been specially designed to meet the needs of vulnerable adults, with support on hand to help all residents lead independent lives. It's brilliant to see occupants moved into their homes and enjoying the community feel of these bungalows while having access to everything they need."

Graham Scanlon, Assistant Director of Housing Services at Sunderland City Council, said: "We're delighted that the Old School House is making such a positive difference to Robert and the other residents.

"This scheme sits beautifully alongside a community of homes that we developed as a local authority in 2021. It is just the latest project we have carried out to ensure the city benefits from a wider range of properties to support the needs of vulnerable residents and those living with disabilities."

The development also received £600,000 grant funding support from Homes England. Andrea Taylor, Senior Manager at Homes England, said: "As the Government's housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting ambitious housebuilders of all sizes to build those homes and communities.