YEARS of planning and months of hard work finally paid off as 15 new almshouses were officially opened in Winchester.

The apartments, in Colebrook Street, are owned and run by charity St John’s Winchester.

Located across five sites in city, St John’s Winchester almshouses provide an affordable, supportive, and safe living environment for people over 60.

Work begun to convert the site, which used to be staff accommodation for the Wessex Hotel, in March 2021. 108 Colebrook Street was also renovated as part of the project and turned into two one-bedroom flats, a one-bedroom maisonette, communal area, and assisted bathroom.

Dignitaries and representatives from the charity were invited to a special event on Wednesday, March 20 to mark the completion.

Nigel Atkinson, Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, unveiled a plaque after speeches by St John’s CEO Clive Cook and chair of trustees Roger Bright.

Mr Atkinson said: “I want to acknowledge the brilliant work St John’s does both here in their almshouses and also through their community-facing services.”

Currently the charity is looking for tenants for remaining vacancies of the almshouses, and a recent application process has drawn scores of entries.

Hampshire Chronicle: Opening day at St John's almshouses

Mr Cook said: “These new almshouses represent a major step in securing the St John’s community in central Winchester for generations to come.

“They are state of the art, energy efficient and designed to facilitate mixing amongst community members and good neighbour relations. Every type of care can be delivered in them by our wonderful care team. The vast majority who move in will find a home for life.”

Supported by welfare staff, St John’s residents will be part of a community of neighbours, friends, and staff. The almshouses are a registered provider of care with the Care Quality Commission, and although residents are encouraged to lead independent lives, they can also make use of the 24/7 assistance and support provided.