The development, known as ‘Stowe Central’, has been completed by Anchor, described as England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for older people.
An opening event was held this week with representatives from Anchor, McCarthy & Stone and Homes England in attendance.
Stowe Central has been built specifically for people aged over 55 and includes a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments. Of the 84 homes, 65 are available for social rent and 19 are offered through an Older Persons Shared Ownership scheme.
The scheme aims to support independent living while helping residents remain part of the wider community. Facilities include a residents’ lounge, activity room, landscaped communal gardens, reception area and secure buggy storage. Each apartment also has a private balcony or patio.
Victoria Mager, Director of Development Delivery at Anchor, said:
“We are proud to celebrate the opening of Stowe Central. The development will create 84 affordable homes for people aged over 55. We’re looking forward to seeing the community take shape and creating a place where residents can enjoy later life to the fullest.”
She said the organisation was pleased to see the new community begin to form.
The opening comes amid continued population growth in Swindon, with Wichelstowe forming a major part of the town’s expansion.
Developers said the scheme has been designed to help older residents maintain their independence, while benefiting from purpose-built accommodation and shared facilities.
Shane Paull, Chief Operating Officer at McCarthy & Stone, said:
“Stowe Central has been designed to support independent later living, while providing access to modern shared spaces and amenities. We are pleased to see the development now officially open, having worked alongside Anchor to help bring these affordable homes to Wichelstowe.”
Shared ownership homes at the development are currently available from £80,750 for a 25 per cent share.
Under the Older Persons Shared Ownership scheme, residents can purchase up to 75 per cent of their property and pay a reduced rent on the remaining share.
Anchor has been operating for more than 60 years and provides housing and care services to more than 65,000 residents across England. The organisation manages almost 55,000 homes nationwide.
The opening of Stowe Central marks another step in the continued growth of Wichelstowe, which is expected to deliver thousands of homes along with schools, community facilities and employment opportunities.
For older residents in Swindon approaching retirement, the development offers a new affordable housing option focused on independence and community living.
