The development has been completed by Midlands-based Deeley Construction and is the flagship cohousing communities for leading not-for-profit Extra Care and Retirement Living provider Housing 21.
Stakeholders and partners involved in shaping and delivering the project came together to experience the development first-hand and explore its design.
Speeches were made by Steph Ramsden, Director of Acquisitions, Sales and Partnerships at Housing 21, Aftab Rahman from Legacy West Midlands and Deputy Lieutenant, Wade Lyn from West Midlands Lieutenancy.
Anthony Cooper from West Midlands Police presented Rupali Court with The Secured By Design Gold Award, a recognition for buildings that incorporate crime prevention measures into the development as part of the commitment to enhance the security of the scheme and to reduce the risk of crime.
Stakeholders in attendance on the day included representatives from Deeley Construction and Triangle Architects.
The event provided an opportunity for all involved to reflect on the collaborative effort that has transformed Rupali Court from a derelict piece of land in Lozells, to a home for residents from the local community.
From early-stage planning through to construction and delivery, the initiative has relied on close collaboration between public bodies, partners, designers, and community stakeholders.
This included working with future residents to provide feedback and input on the design of Rupali Court, with a group of engaged residents involved in all decision making for the scheme.
The scheme comprises 19 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments, a residents’ lounge, a multi-faith room and a landscaped communal garden.
Steph Ramsden, Director of Acquisitions, Sales and Partnerships at Housing 21 said: “It’s great to see our first cohousing scheme Rupali Court completed and ready for the residents to move in.
“We couldn’t have achieved all of this without the ongoing support of the resident group, local community, and our fantastic partners collaborating to deliver something truly special.
“It has been over six years since our work began in Lozells on the site that had been vacant for almost 40 years after the high-rise flats were originally demolished.
"We have heard positive feedback already from the community who are happy to see the site redeveloped and transformed from wasteland, we look forward to seeing Rupali Court become a vital part of the local community.”
The preview event showcased the scheme’s innovative approach to housing, including its emphasis on community-led design principles whilst providing an opportunity for partners to share insights and lessons learned.
Chris Newman, Operations Director at Deeley Construction, said: “It has been fantastic to strengthen our partnership with Housing 21 through the delivery of this flagship co-housing scheme.
"We have worked closely together to deliver a scheme shaped by local residents from Lozells, Aston and Handsworth, which will support a strong and connected community for the long term in the area.
“We are proud to have completed a development that meets the needs of residents and contributes positively to the future of Lozells.”
