A 1920’s workshop of a renowned arts and crafts furniture maker has been transformed into three extra-care flats for older people.

Craft Cottage, a former workshop and showroom of furniture maker Stanley Webb Davies, now holds three properties.

It brings the number of homes run by the Gatesbield Quaker Housing Association in Windermere to 22.

The first tenant will be moving in this week, and Cllr Jonathan Brook is pleased how the council-backed housing scheme is developing.

The deputy leader of South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) and portfolio holder for housing and innovation said: “It is always great to see new affordable homes being opened in the heart of local communities, with support from SLDC.

“These three exceptional new homes will help provide much-needed extra-care accommodation.

“They are a brilliant addition to the Gatesbield housing scheme in Windermere.”

The housing scheme has been funded by partners including SLDC, which awarded £90,000 from its Community-Led Housing scheme.

Other partners include Cumbria County Council, providing £90,000 and the Swarthmoor Area Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) which donated £95,000, with private donors also contributing.

David Le Mare, a trustee of Gatesbield Quaker Housing Association, said: "The Board of Management would like to record its thanks to those who, through their generous donations and grants, have made this possible.

“With the completion of the conversion of Craft Cottage we are delighted to be able to offer three new flats for rent to local people.”

The new flats will contribute towards SLDC’s targets of 1,000 new affordable homes to rent, and 300 more extra-care homes by 2025.

To enquire about tenancies call 015394 45578 or visit www.gatesbield.org.uk.