L-r: Joe Bootman, Louie Marino, Cllr Scott Hussey, Sam Sinclair
We recently celebrated a huge milestone in the development of our new Independent Community Living scheme, The Oaks, due to open in Harleston next autumn.
Louie Marino, 11, a year 6 student at Harleston Sancroft Academy primary, added his name to the foundations of the building at a ceremonial steel signing on Thursday 11th June, alongside Saffron’s Commercial Director Joe Bootman, Cllr Scott Hussey, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at Norfolk County Council, and Sam Sinclair, Regional Technical Director at Lovell.
The scheme will provide 91 affordable apartments for individuals aged 55 and over with additional care needs, in a collaborative venture made possible through the support of Homes England, Norfolk County Council, Lovell, and care provider Radis.
The Oaks will champion a model of care that aims to help people live independently for longer, from within their vibrant local community.
Louie won a competition, hosted by Saffron and Sancroft Academy Primary in April 2025, to name the scheme. His winning entry was chosen as it called attention to the beautiful countryside around Harleston.
Joe Bootman says: “We’re proud to have marked an important milestone in the delivery of a scheme that will make a real difference to people in Harleston and the surrounding area. Independent Living schemes like The Oaks ensure people can remain at the heart of their local community, whilst living in the most appropriate type of accommodation to meet their needs.
“We are delighted to see construction progressing and look forward to welcoming the first residents in autumn next year.”
Councillor Scott Hussey says: “Developments like this play a crucial role in helping people to maintain their independence while remaining connected to their local community.
“Once complete, The Oaks will provide high-quality, affordable homes alongside access to care and support when needed, giving residents the confidence to live safely and independently for longer. We are proud to be supporting a scheme that will make a lasting difference to the lives of older people in Harleston and the surrounding area.”
The scheme will feature a mix of 75 one-bed and 16 two-bed affordable apartments. Facilities on site will include a café, hairdresser, guest room with en-suite shower, and communal garden. Residents will have peace of mind with on-site care and support delivered by experienced community care provider Radis.
The scheme will also provide 16 affordable bungalows, in a mix of 6 one-bed and 4 two-bed for older persons shared ownership, and 6 one-bed bungalows for adults with care and support needs.