18th June 2026
A new supported living development for people with a learning disability, physical disability and autistic people has officially opened in Norwich, marking a significant milestone in Norfolk County Council’s strategy to expand specialist supported housing across the county.
The £3 million development at Makers Close, which includes 12 apartments and six bungalows, is the first scheme to be completed as part of a collaboration between Norfolk County Council and Golden Lane Housing, a leading provider of specialist supported housing.
Delivered by HBV Group and ATEL Design and Build on the former Start-Rite shoe factory site, the development has transformed the area with architecture that carefully complements its surroundings.
All six bungalows are fully wheelchair accessible and each property benefits from dual access wet rooms, solar-powered energy-efficient systems and landscaped shared gardens.
Designed to promote greater independence for adults who require additional care and support, tenants moving into Makers Close will be supported by Avenues Group, a pioneering specialist social care provider that supports individuals facing disadvantage through illness and disability so they can live full lives in their local communities.
For some of the tenants moving in it will be the first home that they can call their own.
The development is another example of responding to the growing demand for homes that combine independent living with the right care and support, enabling people to live fulfilling lives in a place they can call home at the heart of their local community.
Councillor Scott Hussey, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Public Health at Norfolk County Council, said: “This is exactly the kind of investment that Norfolk needs more of. High-quality supported living like Makers Close gives vulnerable people the opportunity to live independently in their own home, with the right care around them. This is the right outcome for them and their families.
“It also makes sound financial sense for the council: supporting people to live well in the community, rather than in more costly residential or institutional settings, is a far more sustainable use of public resource. Makers Close demonstrates what is possible when partners work together and I want to see this model replicated right across Norfolk.”
Emily Collinson, Director of Development and Growth said, “The completion of Makers Close is an important milestone for us at Golden Lane Housing and a clear example of what can be achieved when partners come together with a shared commitment.
“For some of the people moving in, this will be the first home they’ve ever been able to truly call their own, which is incredibly powerful and sits at the heart of our work. We’ve focused on delivering a quality tenant experience throughout, from fully accessible homes to energy‑efficient design, ensuring these are places where people can live independently, comfortably and with dignity. We’re extremely grateful to Norfolk County Council, our construction and design partners, and our care partner for their collaboration and dedication in bringing this development to life.”
Jo Land, Group Chief Executive, Avenues Group said, “Avenues are delighted to have been able to work so closely with Golden Lane Housing and colleagues from Norfolk County Council. We are committed to ensuring that the people moving into these new homes will have opportunities to develop their independence further and we are excited to support and work alongside them on their journey.”