Unique housing complex

Construction of new units in Percival Street, Beckenham, is the first housing venture of its kind in New Zealand.

It is a joint initiative of the City Council and the Beckenham Community Housing Trust of Colombo Street Baptist Church, and involves the Council building 11 units on land it has leased from the trust.

The trust is managing the project and will provide accommodation for people with physical disabilities and those in the local community who will benefit from a supportive environment.

A trust worker will help residents develop friendships and a supportive network among themselves.

The trust is working on applications for tenancies.

The complex is expected to be finished in July.

The total cost will be about $1.4 million, including land costs.