New Extra Care development is named after vaccine inventor

Progress on a new Extra Care Living development in Lyde Green is pushing forwards after receiving the green light from government.

The new Housing 21 development for people over the age of 55 is under construction on Jenner Boulevard. Progress has now been made on the name of the scheme, which is set to be called ‘Edward Jenner Court’ after developers took inspiration from Edward Jenner who invented the small pox vaccine in the 1700s, which went on to become compulsory in 1853 - 30 years’ after the scientist’s death.

The development, near Emersons Green town centre, is being developed by Housing 21 in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council. It will provide 50 two bedroom apartments for affordable rent and shared ownership. The development will offer people over the age of 55 a range of services and facilities including a 24 hour on-site care team for those who need it, a café/bistro, hair salon and communal lounge which is also available to the local community.

The Extra Care development is set for completion in March 2021. The first residents are expected to move into their new homes in April 2021.

South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health, Cllr Ben Stokes said: “The naming of this new Extra Care Living development in Lyde Green after Edward Jenner pays homage to one of the pioneers of immunisation who saved many lives through his work, and it seems like a fitting gesture at a time where his work has never been more relevant.

“Enjoying the privacy of your own apartment whilst knowing that 24 hour on-site care team is available not only provides peace of mind for people living in Extra Care housing, but for their families too. The development’s variety of shared facilities include a café, hair salon and communal lounge which provide opportunities to socialise with others and help reduce loneliness and isolation.”

Lorraine Jenner, Head of Extra Care at Housing 21 said: “We are proud of the positive impact our other Extra Care schemes in South Gloucestershire are already having on the community, Falcon Court and Cambrian Green Court. Cambrian Green Court in Yate received an official rating of ‘Outstanding’ from the Care Quality Commission in May 2019, so we hope to offer high quality care in Emersons Green too, if we are successful in becoming the care provider on-site.

“We are honored to be able to name the scheme after the inspirational Edward Jenner, and look forward to welcoming our new residents in 2021!”

Craig Currie, Managing Director of Vistry Partnerships West, said: “Work is progressing well at Edward Jenner Court, and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Housing 21 to deliver a new Extra Care development in South Gloucestershire.”