The start of construction was marked with a ground-breaking ceremony in Thorpe St Andrew. The Extra Care scheme will provide high-quality, supported housing for older people in the local community. Housing 21, a leading national provider of Extra Care and Retirement Living housing, was joined by representatives from Norfolk County Council and South Norfolk and Broadland District Council, Clegg Construction and TSA Riley to celebrate the milestone at the site on Yarmouth Road. The development is being delivered with grant funding from Homes England and Norfolk County Council, supporting the delivery of much-needed affordable Extra Care housing in the area. Tracy Jones, Head of Commissioning and Service Integration for Housing 21, said “It is a pleasure to be here today as we mark this important milestone to celebrate the start of a development that will make a real difference to people’s lives. “Projects like this are only possible through strong partnerships, and I would like to thank our colleagues at Norfolk County Council and Broadland District Council for their support, collaboration, and shared commitment to providing high-quality homes and communities for local people. We look forward to seeing this site transform over the coming months and to welcoming residents to their new homes in the future” Once built, the scheme will comprise 87 self-contained apartments with either their own balconies or patios. They will be available for social rent to local people over the age of 55. Residents will have the assurance of an on-site care team who will be available 24/7, allowing them to live independently but with care and support on-hand if they need it. Residents will benefit from a range of facilities including a restaurant, residents’ lounge, hair salon, laundry room, guest room, assisted bathroom and mobility scooter store. There will also be landscaped gardens and on-site parking. Councillor Margaret Thomas, deputy cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at Norfolk County Council, said: “Norfolk County Council is continuing its commitment to help residents live as independently as possible and avoid unnecessary residential care home admissions. “This scheme signals another step in the council’s promise to provide inclusive, accessible housing that supports people to live well in their communities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of two sites with planning consent for care home developments in Coxheath and Canterbury in Kent. Recognising a material undersupply of wetroom care home beds and purpose-built elderly care home provision in both Coxheath and Canterbury, care home developer, Aspire-LPP Limited secured planning consent for the care home development schemes, which, once built, will deliver 146 new care home beds to Kent. Both care home schemes will each have 73 bedrooms and offer the ‘best in class’ spatial standards, generous room sizes, and, following BREEAM pre-assessment, are likely to achieve a rating of ‘Very Good’. All bedrooms will have en suite wetrooms and access to luxury communal resident amenities incorporated into the design, such as lounge and dining spaces, hair/beauty salons, open-plan receptions with cafés, and landscaped gardens. The consented care home at Coxheath, Kent, is located in a hybrid masterplan comprising supported living bungalows, a new hospice, affordable bungalows and landscaping. New Highways works and pedestrian routes will connect the new development to Heath Road, ensuring a high degree of accessibility for the surrounding population. In Canterbury, Kent, the consented care home is situated within Phase Two of the consented Thanington Park development. The masterplan is inclusive of 750 homes, a hospice, B1, D1 and D2 planning uses. Currently under construction, Thanington Park is due to be completed in 2028. With a sales process handled by Sara Hartill at Christie & Co, Aspire-LPP Limited and luxury care home provider, Dunham Care Homes, has entered into a Joint Venture Agreement to deliver the care homes, which will be the latest in Dunham Care’s expanding portfolio of luxury care homes in the South-East. Michael Lucas, Managing Director at Aspire-LPP, comments, “These two developments reflect our continued focus on delivering high‑quality, purpose‑built care homes in locations where there is both a clear undersupply and long‑term need. “Working with Royal London Asset Management and Dunham Care allows us to bring forward schemes that are designed to the highest standards, with sustainability, operational efficiency and resident wellbeing at their core. We are pleased to see these projects progress and to play a role in supporting the provision of modern care infrastructure across the South East.” Sara Hartill, Director & Head of Healthcare Development & Investment at Christie & Co, adds, “Aspire LPP has continued to demonstrate their ability to identify superb locations, with this deal marking the start of a joint venture with Dunham Care. Both sites attracted high levels of interest with multiple offers, highlighting the increasing levels of newbuild activity and appetite across the care market.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

McCarthy & Stone is delighted to announce that it has secured a 5-star “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot. Commenting on the upgraded rating, Matthew Pratt, CEO, commented: “This is a remarkable achievement.  We already held an industry-leading Trustpilot score, and this latest upgrade reflects the thousands of small acts of care and professionalism by our dedicated colleagues every day, across every one of our 561 developments.  “Our customers have rated us 5-star for the best-in-class lifestyle they enjoy when living in their McCarthy & Stone development, and we couldn’t be prouder to have the opportunity to support and delight them every day.” Matthew Pratt, who joined McCarthy & Stone as Chief Executive in January 2026, is implementing a strategic reset of the business centred on three clear pillars: The reset reflects a changing marketplace in which more people are remaining independent for longer. To do that, they want greater flexibility to access McCarthy & Stone’s high quality later living provision, including a wider choice of tenure options, and on-demand support if they need it.  Matthew concluded: “This is a very exciting time for McCarthy & Stone.  Our market is evolving rapidly, and we are evolving with it. One thing remains constant though: our unparalleled focus on quality, service and delivery that ensures that McCarthy & Stone is a place that – as our Trustpilot score demonstrates – our customers are proud to call home.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Elderly residents at a sheltered housing complex in Rustington are getting together more frequently after a modern community hall was completed by Pilbeam Construction. Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said since the hall was officially opened residents have been leading busier social lives, attending quizzes, film nights and some even had their own Christmas celebrations in the space. The original 1970s communal building had reached the end of its life and was replaced by the award-winning Booker Hall, which features sustainable design, vaulted ceilings, large skylights, a fully equipped kitchen and ample space for events. Sussex contractor Pilbeam delivered the scheme alongside architects Studio Scott Taylor for owner Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society, which said the new facilities are also providing an events space for the local community groups. The scheme was highly commended in the Sussex Heritage Trust Awards 2025 in the public and community category. Alan Corbett, managing director of Pilbeam Construction, said: “We worked closely with Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society to ensure a smooth process and a positive experience for everyone. “It’s great to hear how well used the hall has been since opening and that it’s helped to create a much stronger sense of community for residents who are enjoying socialising in a modern and brighter space.”   The project included the demolition of an outdated communal hall, laundrette and office facilities and replacing them with a Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) framed hall, a modern laundrette, offices and new flats, all with sustainable design at their core. The new structures are energy efficient and purpose built, providing a warm, welcoming and modern design which is tailored for residents, the wider community and employees. Next to the hall, the laundrette offers a practical yet inviting environment, complete with a courtyard that allows for natural drying in good weather and a social space for residents located at the heart of the site. The timber frame and glue-laminated beams lean into the sustainable feel of the whole complex. Locally sourced flint, an element of locally sourced bricks and a zinc roof with concealed gutters ensure the buildings are not only visually appealing, but also environmentally sound. Emily Scott, director of Studio Scott Taylor, the project’s architectural firm, said: “From the outset we worked closely with the client team to nurture a project that incorporates their specific needs & creates welcoming spaces for staff and residents. “This project seamlessly integrates modern and traditional construction methods, making use of locally sourced materials, resulting in a unique civic building that enriches the local community and enhances the lives of those it serves. “The project has a strong emphasis on sustainability incorporating prefabricated timber construction methods, biodiverse planting and renewable energy sources. This includes solar panels, air source heat pumps and a natural ventilation strategy. At its heart, the project is designed to foster connections and promote the wellbeing of both residents and staff, reflecting a people-centred approach to architecture.” The communal spaces are available for hire by the wider Rustington community, creating an additional revenue stream for the housing society and strengthening local ties. The new office buildings provide employees with a collaborative workspace with large windows providing generous daylight and views to the surrounding planting.  Sally Shepherd CEO Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said: “Since the communal hall officially opened, our residents have been holding a number of events which is making them feel less isolated.  “For those residents who do not have or do not see their friends and family very much they can become lonely – the new hall is helping them integrate with others on a much more regular basis.” Community groups and residents who want to hire the hall can find out more here: https://www.rustingtonhall.co.uk/ For further information visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Planning permission has been granted for a new, 77-bed development in Coalville, specifically designed for over-55s, representing a major step forward in the town’s masterplan. Multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p Ltd has secured planning consent for the redevelopment of land next to Baker Street in the North Leicestershire town. Working with Geda Construction for Trent & Dove, the practice has designed a proposal that will transform disused and vacant industrial land into a contemporary development to meet the growing housing needs of our ageing population. Made up of 77 one- and two-bed affordable social rent apartments, the project also features residents’ lounges, guest accommodation, lobby, office space, buggy store, parking and extensive landscaping, including a spectacular sunken garden. rg+p’s design was inspired by Coalville’s industrial heritage, as lead architect, Sarah Grocock explains: “Our material choices focused on red brick and clay tiles to provide a connection with Coalville’s industrial past, but the design introduces familiar shapes such as feature gables to soften the scheme and give it a residential feel. “Different streetscapes define character areas throughout the building and help signal the transition between public, semi-private and private space. We also sought to harness the level change within the site to create meaningful amenity space, with the sunken garden providing a focal point for this,” adds Sarah. The approved scheme includes new access arrangements, including an extension of Linden Way which North West Leicestershire District Council received funding to provide, sustainable drainage systems and high-quality landscaping that will deliver a significant biodiversity net gain. It will also provide built-in, permanent nest brick and bat roost brick features, bee bricks and invertebrate hibernaculum. Sarah continues: “Securing planning permission for this site represents a significant milestone for our work on the wider Coalville masterplan, which also encompasses the neighbouring Wolsey Road development. “A ProCon Award finalist last year, Wolsey Road has already delivered 77 high quality, affordable homes and helped established a thriving new community in the town. It’s therefore exciting that this latest consent allows us to build on that success and continue to play a meaningful role in Coalville’s ongoing regeneration,” concludes Sarah. Charlie Riley, Development Director, Trent & Dove adds: “rg+p’s design for this brownfield site will connect seamlessly with the wider regeneration and retain a sense of individuality. They have been aligned with our vision for this development, and we look forward to delivering much-needed homes and employment opportunities for the town.” Construction at Baker Street is expected to start soon. The wider project team includes Arcadis (Employer’s Agent); BSP Consulting (Civil, Structure and Highways Engineer); Langcroft (Developer) and William Saunders (Highways Engineer – Link Road). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of a development site in Widnes, Cheshire, with planning consent for a 60-bed care home. Once built, the care home will comprise 60 bedrooms with en suite, wetroom facilities, a cinema, a hair salon, a choice of lounge and dining rooms, and landscaped gardens. The strategic site, which fronts onto Warrington Road, has been cleared and is ready for development. It benefits from a central location in Widnes, within easy distance of the shopping centres, market, and A577 and A533. Planning consent was achieved in November 2024 by Care Developments Limited, which identified the site’s potential for elderly care use. Following an open sales process with Will Edwards at Christie & Co, the consented site has been sold to Dr Sanjay Agarwal of large regional care home operator, Danan Group.  David Wormald, Director at Care Developments Limited, comments, “I want to wish Sanjay and his team all the best with progressing this development.” Dr Sanjay Agarwal, Director at Danan Group, comments, “This acquisition marks another key step in Danan Group’s growth. We look forward to delivering a scheme that the community can be proud of.” Will Edwards, Senior Broker – Healthcare Development & Investment at Christie & Co, comments, “I’m pleased to have been able to assist in the disposal of this site to Danan Group, who are a highly respected regional operator that will bring excellent care to a largely undersupplied region of the UK. We look forward to working with Sanjay and his team as they continue the growth of their portfolio and increase their offering to residents in the North West.”   The site was sold for an undisclosed price. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Building work is underway on a £20.7 million later living apartment development in Bradford, with Caddick Construction commencing works on Ashfield Mills on behalf of housing provider Anchor. The scheme, located on Ashfield Road in Idle, will deliver 75 apartments for older people and includes a range of communal amenities, car parking and landscaped areas. Anchor is England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life. With construction now in progress, Caddick Construction is increasing activity on site. The contractor said this will include initiatives aimed at supporting the local community, alongside training and employment opportunities. The development is scheduled for completion in 2027. Caddick was appointed to the project through the NEPO Construction Works framework, providing Anchor with a streamlined procurement route to deliver new homes in the city. Ashfield Mills further strengthens Caddick’s presence in Bradford following its delivery of One City Park for development partners Muse and Bradford Council. The 56,403 sq ft scheme was the city’s first Grade A office development in 20 years and includes five floors of office space and a roof terrace. Steve Ford, Regional Managing Director, Caddick Construction North East & Yorkshire commented: “We’re proud to have been appointed to deliver Anchor’s latest later living complex and for work to be progressing on site. This new development will offer residents independent living with the peace of mind that comes from a supportive community environment. Building on our experience in the later living sector, we will work in collaboration with our partners and supply chain to successfully bring this development to life.” Victoria Mager, Director of Development Delivery, added: “This scheme represents an important investment in high-quality homes for older people in Bradford. Our ambition is to create welcoming, modern places that help residents stay connected and live well for longer. Working with Caddick, we’re looking forward to delivering a development that supports both individual independence and a strong sense of community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Specialist senior living developer Charterpoint has submitted planning applications for two new care homes, marking the start of the year with an expansion of its portfolio. The proposed developments are located in Gedling, near Nottingham, and to the north of Peterborough. Both schemes are designed as modern, three-storey care homes with 80 en-suite bedrooms, lounges, dining rooms, activity areas, and additional resident facilities. Charterpoint CEO Adrian Goose said: “As a specialist in the senior living and care home sector, Charterpoint is very pleased to have applied for planning permission for two additional care homes to add to our portfolio. “We have a strong track record of developing best in class care homes—identifying areas where there is demand for such facilities, designing attractive buildings, and securing planning permission for the developments. We are delighted to have now submitted plans to Gedling Borough Council and to Peterborough City Council for two further care homes.” The Gedling care home is proposed for a site off Lambley Lane, which has been identified for residential use in Gedling Borough Council’s Local Plan. The design, by KWL Architects, includes 80 en-suite bedrooms, lounges, dining areas, activity and hobby rooms, a café, and a hairdresser, with access via an improved entrance off Lambley Lane. The Peterborough care home, designed by Anotherkind Architects, will feature en-suite bedrooms, residents’ lounges, dining areas, a cinema, a hairdresser, a café/bistro opening onto a terrace, and activity rooms. The site, to be accessed from Newborough Road, will also include spacious gardens, patios, communal terraces on the first and second floors, and 33 car parking spaces for staff and visitors. Charterpoint Managing Director Giles Nursey said: “Our proposed new care home is in an area of Peterborough which is experiencing significant and rapid local growth, where a care home would be a tremendous asset to the community. “This care home would offer yet another best in class asset in an easily accessible and visible site, responding to this locally recognised need.” Charterpoint worked with planning consultants P&DG on the Peterborough proposals. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Eric Wright Construction has completed the first care home, Castlewood in Clitheroe, for client Wrightcare.  The £14m development comprises 68 en-suite bedrooms with shared living spaces including lounges, dining and kitchen facilities, a café and bar area, hair salon and multiple wellness and activity spaces, supported by integrated technologies to enhance resident care and safety.   James Eager, director of Eric Wright Construction commented “We are proud to handover Castlewood to our client, Wrightcare, on time and on budget. As this is a full turnkey project, our team has ensured that every aspect has been delivered to the highest standards to provide a high-quality, comfortable and safe environment for residents and employees.  “Working collaboratively with our consultants, supply chain partners, sub-contractors, and the client team, we successfully addressed a range of technical challenges, turning them into opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement. The valuable experience gained will further strengthen our approach as we also start to move forward with the construction of Wrightcare’s second care home in Lancashire.” Gill Chadwick, managing director for Wrightcare added “This is a significant milestone for Wrightcare, as we celebrate the handover of our first care home, Castlewood. “This is the beginning of creating a community founded on compassion, dignity and the very best person-centred care. I’m looking forward to the journey ahead and to welcoming our first residents.” Castlewood has been designed with a focus on maximising the outdoor spaces including a village green entrance to the property, with greenhouses and raised beds for residents who want to enjoy gardening and private patios to the ground floor apartments. Wrightcare, which is also part of the Eric Wright Group, plans to build, retain and operate a number of new care homes across the North West in the near future and the construction team is due to start on site with the second care home Brindlewood, Grimsargh near Preston. This second development will encompass a 72-bedroom care home, along with 48 bungalows that are being delivered by Applethwaite, also part of the Eric Wright Group.  The project team  included: Planning – Steve Abbott Associates, Lead Designer / Architect – Cassidy & Ashton, Civil & Structural – JP Structures, Landscape Architect – TEL Landscapes, MEP – TACE, Fire Engineering – Hoare Lea, Acoustics – Cundalls, Transport – Mode, Environmental – Envirotech, Building Control – Sweco. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

England’s largest not-for-profit later-living provider, Anchor, celebrated a key milestone – the topping out and the laying of the last tile on the roof of its newest affordable housing development on Melton Road in Edwalton. The event was attended by senior Anchor personnel, Homes England, and Rushcliffe Borough Council. Located in Nottingham, the development will provide 80 homes for rent, of which there will be 31 one-bedroom and 49 two-bedroom apartments available. Once open, the scheme will also provide future residents with various modern communal spaces, including beautifully landscaped gardens and a seated patio area. Anchor’s Executive Director of Development, Oli Boundy, said: “The topping out ceremony at Edwalton marks an important milestone for both Anchor and the development. It will deliver much needed, high-quality, affordable accommodation to support older people in the local community. We would like to thank Vistry, Homes England, and Rushcliffe Borough Council for their support and co-operation in helping us reach this stage.” James Warrington, Executive Chair (North, South Midlands and East Division) at Vistry Group, added: “Reaching this milestone with our partners Anchor, Homes England, and Rushcliffe Borough Council is a proud moment for everyone involved. These new apartments in Edwalton represent our commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable homes which are tailored to the needs of those entering their later years. By working together, we’re not only addressing the urgent need for later living accommodation, but also helping to build a vibrant, inclusive community where residents can truly thrive.” Lewis Young, Senior Manager – Affordable Housing Delivery at Homes England, commented: “As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting ambitious housebuilders of all sizes to build those homes and communities. “This investment through the Affordable Homes Programme does just that, enabling Anchor to build 80 much needed new homes the people of Rushcliffe can be proud of.” Councillor Roger Upton, Portfolio Holder for Planning & Housing at Rushcliffe Borough Council, said: “Anchor has worked closely with the local community throughout the building of this development, which is a testament of its commitment to providing homes for later living that suit the demand and changing needs of the older population in our area. I look forward to seeing the developing relationship between Anchor and their residents and witnessing the growth of a thriving older community.” For more information about the development please visit https://www.anchor.org.uk/edwalton. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals