Approval for new retirement living scheme in heart of Chester

Plans for 56 retirement living apartments in Chester have been approved, following a public consultation which informed the final submission.

Cheshire West and Chester Council passed the McCarthy Stone scheme under delegated powers.

The proposals will see the land adjacent to the Shot Tower transformed into a modern retirement living community, which will help to meet the need for specialist homes for older people in the area.

The plans will deliver a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, set within landscaped grounds, with ample on-site car parking.

The site is ideally situated in the city centre, close to a range of shops, cafes and public transport connections.

Ian Wilkins, divisional managing director at McCarthy Stone North, said: “Our exciting plans for Chester will help to address a critical need 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.

“Residents typically use shops and services on their doorstep and, as such, this development will provide a vital boost to businesses in Chester city centre, helping to support local shops and cafes.”

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s local plan emphasises the need to meet the housing requirements of its growing ageing population. McCarthy Stone said its plans have been carefully designed with the local plan in mind.