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Former Krypton Factor and North West Tonight TV presenter, Gordon Burns, officially opened Smithy Croft in Heald Green, in Stockport, a new retirement living development owned and managed by Your Housing Group.
During an afternoon of celebration attended by Smithy Croft residents and other members of the local community, the Christmas tree lights were switched on and everyone tucked into a festive feast. A Christmas table decoration competition took place and local children from Bolshaw Primary School decorated lanterns that were displayed in the entrance to the scheme.
The £7.7 million development, built with a grant of more than £800,000 from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), has 55 one and two bedroom apartments, all available for rent, shared ownership or outright sale.
The purpose-built site on Finney Lane is home to 70 residents aged 55 years and over, all of whom have a local connection. The development includes a bistro serving hot and cold food, a hairdressers and a craft room which offers a range of weekly activities. These amenities are open to the local community and non-residents are encouraged to use the facilities.
Kathy Cowell, Chair of Your Housing Group, said: “Smithy Croft has already proved very popular with our residents, who have created a real community here. They enjoy the social aspects of living in a retirement village scheme yet they know they can close their front door and have time on their own to rest and relax when they want to. We can now offer the very best in retirement living for older people here in Heald Green, allowing individuals to lead independent lives with the reassurance that support is there if they need it.”
Gordon Burns said: “There is a lovely atmosphere here at Smithy Croft. It feels welcoming, very homely and has a real sense of community. It’s been a wonderful, fun-filled afternoon. I’ve met some marvellous folk and thoroughly enjoyed my visit. I wish all residents well in their new homes.”
Marion Shaw, Your Housing Group’s scheme manager for Smithy Croft added: “Since opening in the summer, we’ve already connected with the junior schools, doctor’s surgery and local library, making residents feel very much part of the wider community. The bistro, hairdressers and activity room are all well used by the public which is great to see. We even have a mother and baby group regularly visiting our Bistro which the residents love.”
Each of the specially designed apartments has a wet room and well equipped kitchen with built in appliances including integrated oven, hob and extractor. There is also a pamper bathroom, guest suite and resident laundry facilities. For residents who need a little more help, assisted bathrooms are also available in the building.
Smithy Croft has been designed to allow residents to live an independent life in a socially supportive environment. The onsite care and support team provides help and support that will change to individual needs, providing a safe and secure environment and most importantly, giving residents and their families peace of mind.
Funding for this development was provided by HCA and Your Housing Group.
Anyone interested in an apartment should contact the sales team on 0845 618 5008 or visit www.yourhousinggroup.co.uk for more details.
