A LEADING regeneration specialist has placed the first roof tile at its Woodpecker Close development in Saughall Massie.

To mark the occasion, Vistry Partnerships hosted a topping out ceremony at the development, an important milestone in the construction process.

The event was attended by Vistry’s Managing Director for the North West, Ian Hilliker, the Chief Executive of Alpha Living, Graeme Foster, and Claire Glen of Homes England, who helped fund the project.

The ceremony marked the first roof tile being laid with the full project being handed over to Alpha Living in March 2021.

Following the placement of the roof tile, Ian Hilliker said: “It’s important to highlight the need for developments like these and we are happy to be able to provide flats to people who truly need them. High quality developments are vital for local people and help build and sustain communities.”

The development, named Poppyfields, is made of 78 self-contained apartments, comprised of 60 one-bed and 18 two-bed apartments available to rent for those over 55.

Poppyfields will also provide a variety of extra facilities including a bistro, hair salon, spa bathroom and well-being suite, and a communal lounge accessible by residents.

The development will also see the creation of a new head office for Alpha Living. Alpha Living will offer 24-hour care and support services on site.

Chief Executive of Alpha Living, Graeme Foster said: “The whole project team has been focused on delivering a high quality development which will provide much needed affordable extra care housing on the Wirral. We are grateful to all of our many partners, especially Vistry and look forward to welcoming residents in the New Year.”

Caroline Cormack, Head of Provider Management at Homes England, added: “Despite the current challenges affecting the country, supporting our partners in delivering new housing remains our number one priority. We will continue to do business with partners Alpha and Vistry, who are committed to building vital new affordable homes.”