Housing development opening in Portsmouth for people with complex needs

A purpose-built housing development is set to open for people in Portsmouth with autism and other complex requirements, giving them an opportunity to live more independently.

Over the summer, 12 people will move into three bungalows at Temple Court in Nessus Street, Buckland, built by Portsmouth City Council. They’ll have en-suite rooms or individual flats, as well as communal areas, and staff will be on-site to support them.

The £1.5million development is part of a move by Portsmouth City Council away from traditional residential care homes to more community-based independent living. It was part-funded by a £660,000 government grant.

Keith McKnight’s son Joe, aged 28, is on the autistic spectrum, and will be one of the new development’s tenants.

Mr McKnight said: “Temple Court is a fantastic opportunity for Joe to thrive in an environment which is community-based, modern and fit for purpose. His family are delighted to be a part of this project and are grateful to the many people whose hard work has come to fruition.”

Councillor Luke Stubbs, Portsmouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: “This is a high-quality development, with a pleasant enclosed garden. People can choose to be in their own space or to mix with others in communal areas.

“The ratio of staff to tenants will be about one to one, so they will have a lot of support available, but they will also be able to develop their everyday life skills.

“Developments like Temple Court increase the number of places in the city. This keeps services local, and makes the council less dependent on facilities outside Portsmouth.

“In a variety of ways, Temple Court will save us around £177,000 a year.”