‘Independent living’ homes open on site of Royal Hill community garden

Homes for nine people with learning disabilities and autism have been opened on the site of an old community garden in west Greenwich.

The Royal Hill Independent Living Service, which can accommodate nine residents, was unveiled by Anthony Okereke, the Greenwich Council leader, last week.

Residents will live in five one-bedroom flats and a four-bedroom shared home. Two of the flats are accessible for wheelchair users. They will be able to use a sensory garden, vegetable planters, a roof terrace and an outdoor dining area. 

The site was a former police car park that was taken over as an unofficial community garden in 2016. But the gardeners were evicted in 2019, before a feasibility study into the housing project began.

Councillors approved the scheme in 2020. But the need to deal with pollution on the site – once part of a railway line from Nunhead to Greenwich Park  and described as “a 90-year-old unregulated rubbish dump” by a neighbour – meant that work did not begin until 2022.

The homes are being operated by Golden Lane Housing, a specialist provider, for the council.

Mariam Lolovar, the cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “True progress is measured by how we care for the most vulnerable among us. This much-needed living space will provide support, independence, choice, and a sense of belonging to those who will call it home. 

“Partnership working has been key in making this a reality, so I would like to thank all the dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly on this project. From the architects and builders who brought this vision to life, to the caregivers and support staff who will provide daily assistance and encouragement.”

Abdul Latif, Golden Lane’s director of development and growth, said: “This scheme is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainability. 

“We’re thankful for the opportunity to work together with the council, future tenants, and their families towards a shared goal –  creating a supportive, empowering living environment in which our tenants can learn new skills, be as independent as possible and truly call a home.”