New accessible bungalows in Walcot welcome first residents

The milestone was marked by a visit from Councillor Janine Howarth, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, who joined contractors for a walk-through of the development and to hand over keys to one family of new residents, Amber and Claire.

Built on previously unused council-owned land, the three new three-bedroom homes have been purpose-built to support individuals with mobility needs or those requiring live-in care. Designed to promote independence and safety, the properties support the Council’s mission to build a fairer, greener and better Swindon through the development of accessible housing which enables residents to live safely and independently.

Each bungalow features level access at entrances, step-free interiors, wider doorways and fully adapted wet rooms. There is also off-road parking and private outdoor spaces.

The homes have been equipped with solar panels, air source heat pumps and modern ventilation systems to help reduce both running costs and their environmental impact. The blend of sustainable technology and thoughtful design aims to make everyday living more comfortable and affordable, while supporting the Council’s vision for a greener Swindon.

The properties in Walcot have been part-funded through a combination of Section 106 developer contributions and Right to Buy receipts and built on behalf of the Council by local builder, R J Leighfield & Sons Ltd. The homes have been allocated via the Council’s housing register, with particular consideration to those families with complex physical health needs, who require a property that is fully adapted and can meet their needs both now and in the future.

Amber, who will be moving in with Claire and their young children, said: "Our son was diagnosed at 11 months old with a condition called Duchenne muscular dystrophy. It’s a muscle-wasting condition, progressive, with no cure currently. 

"He was struggling with the stairs, struggling with getting in and out of the bath, with all aspects of mobility life, and this bungalow has basically taken so much stress away from us, to help our son live the best life he can possibly have, and to help us as parents do that.

"We are forever grateful to Swindon Borough Council for helping us, and most importantly, helping our son."

Councillor Janine Howarth, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “These new homes in Ashley Close are designed to make a real difference for people who need accessible housing.

“They provide space, safety and independence, and will allow residents to live more comfortably in the community they know.

“It’s also important that they are built with modern energy-saving technology, which will help keep living costs down while supporting our environmental goals.

"I hope the residents will be happy in their new homes, as this project embodies our vision for a Fairer, Better and Greener Swindon, where everyone has the foundation to thrive.”