EXCLUSIVE: A block of flats built by the council for dementia sufferers has only one person living in it, despite its having opened almost three months ago.

Fews Lodge sheltered housing in Gregory Road, Chadwell Heath, opened in October to provide accommodation for up to 13 people with early-stage dementia.

However, despite the Lodge hiring six part-time members of staff, it has only gained a single resident, who moved in last November.

When asked by the Post about the lack of activity at the Lodge, Barking and Dagenham Council said it would be holding an open day for members of the public at the end of the month to attract more occupants.

The council said the scheme is an extension of the neighbouring Kallar Lodge dementia care home with which it shares staff and resources.

However, it confirmed that six additional part-time members of staff have been hired since the Lodge was opened.

A council spokeswoman said: “Fews Lodge is a specialist extra care housing scheme for people with dementia and includes 13 flats with one already occupied and a second due to have a resident move in shortly. It has only recently opened.”

She said the Lodge allow people with lower levels of dementia to have their own flat and retain their independence for as long as possible.

If they need more support they can move to Kallar Lodge care home next door.

She added: “As this is a new scheme, an open day has been planned for January 28.

“This event will be a great opportunity for members of the public to find out more about the development and to view two ‘show flats’.”