A major milestone has been reached in the construction of Housing 21’s latest Extra Care development, Mowat Gardens in Cleckheaton.
The topping-out ceremony held on Kenmore Drive, marking the building reaching its highest point, a significant step toward completion.
Mowat Gardens will become Housing 21’s first Extra Care scheme in Kirklees, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to providing high-quality, independent living options for older people across the county. Once complete, the development will offer modern, accessible properties with on-site care and support tailored to individual needs.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from Housing 21, Kirklees Council, Brewster Bye Architects, MJM Consulting Engineers Ltd, TSA Riley and main contractor Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands, all celebrating the progress made.
Bridget Faughnan-Bing, Director of Development and Delivery at Housing 21 said:
“We are delighted to see the progress on our 80-unit scheme in Cleckheaton. This has truly been a collaborative effort and would not have been possible without the support of Kirklees, our Employers Agent TSA Riley and Robertson our contractors, who I have no doubt will deliver a scheme to be incredibly proud of once complete. We’re really looking forward to welcoming our first residents in 2026”.
Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group said:
“Reaching the topping out stage at Mowat Gardens marks a key milestone for everyone involved. This development will provide high-quality, accessible homes with the care and support that enable people to maintain their independence.
“Working closely with Housing 21 and Kirklees Council, we are delivering an Extra Care scheme that responds directly to local needs and supports wellbeing in the community.”
Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, said;
“Through partnership working, we have made great progress in reaching this milestone to deliver the Extra Care scheme in Cleckheaton. Once completed, the scheme will provide high-quality homes that are fully accessible, allowing our residents to live independently for longer.”
Councillor Nosheen Dad, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Corporate, said;
“I’m pleased we are one step closer to opening a new Extra Care scheme in Kirklees which will provide much needed support to those who want to live independently. The scheme will provide comfortable and suitable housing for our residents to live independently, as well as having access to extra care facilities and on-site support when needed.”
Mowat Gardens will offer 61 one-bedroom and 19 two-bedroom apartments, which will be available for people aged 55 and over to rent. This development has been supported with over £6 million of Homes England grant funding, in addition to £500 thousand capital subsidy from Kirklees Council.
Once open residents will benefit from a wide range of communal facilities, including a communal lounge, activity room, laundry, communal gardens, and guest room. Additional facilities will also be available for use by the wider local community including a café and hair salon.
The scheme is forecast to open in the Summer of 2026.