A DATE for the opening of a Winchester development has been confirmed following months of delays.

The completion date for Chesil Lodge project, in Chesil Street, has been pushed back several times by Winchester City Council, but it has now been confirmed residents will begin moving in June.

As previously reported, the Chesil Street development, which will see 52 flats built for over-55s, had an initial completion date of November last year, but was pushed back to February following delays.

But in February, councillors heard from leader Cllr Caroline Horrill that they were still unsure when the major housing project would be completed, following a question from Winchester Liberal Democrat group leader Lucille Thompson.

Now the council has confirmed contractor Galliford Try has sent a ‘notice of completion’, meaning the handover of the building will start in May and in June residents will begin to move in.

Richard Botham, the city council’s corporate head of housing, said: “The Chesil Lodge development sets a new standard for older persons housing where residents can enjoy their later years in spacious homes knowing that care and support is on hand when they need it.

“It also offers beautiful views over the historic city of Winchester.

“The development would not have been possible without the help and support of our key partners, including Hampshire County Council, Homes England and particularly the late Harold Harris, an ex Winchester resident, whose generous bequest to support housing for older people in the city has helped fund the development.”

The city council said buyers for all the sale and shared ownership flats were secured months ago and rented flats are already over-subscribed with applicants.

The homes will provide flats specially designed for independent living, with a range of communal facilities including a restaurant, laundry, treatment rooms and

lounges.

The council says it will be highly energy efficient, with minimal heating costs subsidised by the latest renewable technology.

Residents will also enjoy the benefits of free Wi-Fi throughout the scheme.