Lion House opens to provide specialist supported accommodation
Lion House, a new specialist residential facility, has opened its doors in Wellington, transforming the long-stalled site of the former Red Lion pub. The development offers modern, sustainable housing for residents needing independent living with round-the-clock support from Creative Support.
The council confirmed that Lion House is part of its commitment to investing in high-quality care for people with specialist and complex needs. This is intended to support residents to live well for longer in their own homes, despite rising social care costs.
High-Quality, Sustainable Homes
The scheme features 11 self-contained apartments, a large communal area, and dedicated staff facilities. Each apartment includes assistive technology to promote independence while ensuring professional support is always available.
Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford and Wrekin Council, said: “Lion House is a fantastic example of how we are investing in our residents’ futures.
“Despite the financial pressures facing local authorities nationwide, we remain committed to providing excellent care and support for those with care and support needs.
“This development will give residents the opportunity to live independently in high-quality accommodation with the reassurance of 24/7 support. It’s about enabling people to live well for longer in their own homes, with dignity and independence.”
Brownfield Site Reused
Councillor Angela McClements, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism, Culture & The Arts, noted that the project has brought a formerly stalled brownfield site back into productive use.
She added: “Lion House demonstrates our determination to make best use of brownfield sites whilst delivering homes that will make a real difference to people’s lives.
“The care and attention that has gone into this development shows our commitment to looking after our most vulnerable residents.”
The building was constructed using modern methods, including a lightweight steel frame and highly insulated panels, which significantly reduced carbon emissions and water usage during the build. The frontage was rebuilt in traditional brick to match the area’s character. Heat pumps and an infrared heating system also ensure the building is highly efficient.
Funding came from a combination of Telford and Wrekin Council’s Housing Investment Fund, the Council’s Stalled Sites and Empty Property Grant, and external investment from Homes England.
A spokesperson from Homes England said: “The opening of Lion House is a fantastic achievement and a prime example of how we work collaboratively with partners, to achieve our mission to build much needed new homes that people can be proud of.”
Creative Support will provide the on-site services, with Senior Operations Manager Jackie Unsworth saying they look forward to “facilitating a smooth transition for all incoming tenants and getting acquainted with every new resident.”
