(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
The future of a 98-year-old community for older people in Darlington is in doubt.
The Sir E D Walker Trust, which runs 55 almshouse bungalows in the town's West End, has begun discussions with housing association Thirteen about the site's long-term plans.
Trustees say the homes need significant investment to meet modern standards, but stressed no decisions have been made.
Matt Forrest, chief executive of Thirteen, said: "At this stage, no decisions have been made, and our priority is supporting the Trust as it listens to its residents.
"We know people will have questions, and it's important they have the opportunity to share their views and help shape any future proposals."
Sir E D Walker Homes, Darlington. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
The Sir E D Walker Trust has provided housing for older people in Darlington for generations.
The development was established in 1928 through a bequest from Sir Edward Daniel Walker, a former mayor and businessman, creating what has become a close-knit community of independent-living bungalows.
However, trustees say the ageing homes now require major improvements and that the scale of investment needed is beyond the charity's means.
Colin Price, chair of the trust, said: "The Trust has provided homes in Darlington for many years, and our responsibility is first and foremost to our residents.
"It's important to us that people have safe, warm homes where they can live independently.
"We've been looking carefully at the long-term future of the site.
"While the community remains incredibly important to us, the homes need significant investment to meet modern accessibility standards, and the scale of that investment is beyond what the Trust can provide on its own."
Sir E D Walker Homes, Darlington. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Mr Price said working with Thirteen could provide a long-term solution while protecting the community spirit residents value.
He added: "We understand this news may create uncertainty, and residents will naturally have questions about what it could mean for them.
"We're committed to listening carefully to what residents tell us, and their views will play a vital role in shaping any future plans."
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Concerns about the future of the historic site are not new.
In 2022, trustees said the bungalows were showing their age and needed upgrading to ensure they remained fit for the future, while preserving Sir Edward Walker's original vision of providing homes for older Darlington residents.
The trust said residents would continue to be kept informed as discussions progress and that any future proposals would be developed with their feedback.