Retirement living scheme put forward to Trafford Borough Council

Plans have been submitted to Trafford Borough Council to transform land in Sale into a retirement living community, by McCarthy Stone.

The Oakfield scheme would deliver a mix of 25 one- and two-bedroom retirement living apartments, set within landscaped gardens and offering sufficient on-site car parking. The site is close to the town centre, with residents being able to benefit from a range of shops and cafes as well as nearby public transport connections.

Ahead of submitting a planning application, McCarthy Stone carried out a public consultation with the local community on its initial proposals. The feedback the developer received has helped to inform the submitted plans.

Ian Wilkins, divisional managing director at McCarthy Stone, said: “Our proposals for Sale would help to address a demand for retirement accommodation in the area, providing housing choice for local older people, whilst also freeing up the wider housing market for local families and first-time buyers further down the chain.

“Research shows that every McCarthy Stone apartment sold generates at least two moves further down the housing chain. This means a 25-unit community in Sale, would likely free up at least 50 homes for local people at differing stages of the housing ladder.”

Independent research by WPI Economics determined that residents of a 25-home McCarthy Stone development would be expected to generate around £193,000 of spending on the local high street.

Mr Wilkins added: “Our residents typically use local shops and services daily, or often, and would provide a vital boost to businesses in Sale town centre, helping to support local retail jobs and keep shops open.

“This additional spending can help maintain local outlets from the newsagents and the butchers to the bakery, pub, and local cafe – in other words the shops and community spaces that make up the heart of the local community.”