Extra care facilities complete in Chorley and Wigan

Construction has concluded on a total of 118 assisted living homes across two sites in the North West.

Main contractor Robertson Construction has built 62 homes on the site of a former bus depot in Chorley, while Countryside Partnerships has replaced existing housing with 56 specialist flats in Leigh.

Tatton Gardens

Robertson Construction began work in early 2021 to provide 62 homes and community facilities for over-55s off Eaves Lane in Chorley.

The scheme has delivered 60 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom apartments on the site of the former Stagecoach bus depot. Residents have access to a communal lounge and 24/7 on-site support.

Triangle Architects designed the scheme, which has also replaced the old community centre with a new health and community hub on the 6.5-acre site. This contains a café, hairdresser, and shop. 

Leader of Chorley Council, Cllr Alistair Bradley, said: “The area was also in desperate need of quality provisions, particularly in healthcare, which isn’t an area we’d usually get involved in, but we’ve incorporated a GP surgery and pharmacy into the development which was much needed.”

Homes England will run the project, which was supported by a £5.2m investment from Lancashire Enterprise Partnership’s Getting Building Fund.

To the rear of the site, the former Tatton Recreation Ground was transformed in summer 2021 to provide play equipment and a new bowling hut for residents.

Debbie Francis, chair of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, said “The regeneration of Tatton Gardens demonstrates how targeted investment can help transform local facilities, improve the quality of life for residents, and generate new job opportunities. 

“It will also help improve the wider Chorley offer in terms of attracting new investment and supporting local communities.”      

Dirk Pittaway, regional managing director at Robertson Construction North West, added: “The council’s commitment to repurposing the site to benefit the local community has been evident from the start of the project, and working together we have been able to deliver a quality facility with multiple uses in addition to a number of initiatives which will continue to deliver benefit to the community.”

Chorley Council’s reference number for the application is 20/00835/CB3MAJ.

Wharfdale Extra Care

Countryside Partnerships has delivered 56 apartments off Henry Street in Leigh, specially designed for elderly residents.

AFL Architects designed the scheme which has provided 54 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom extra care flats, as well as a communal lounge, assisted bathroom, reading room, and scooter store.

The three-storey building has replaced sheltered housing and has been handed over to Wigan Council, through which each home will be available via affordable rent.

Countryside Partnerships has delivered 56 assisted living homes. Credit: via SEC Newgate

Cllr Susan Gambles, cabinet portfolio holder for housing and welfare at Wigan Council, said: “Wharfdale Extra Care is located in Leigh town centre, close to shops and services which is really handy for those living there. 

“This facility is a big improvement on the previous sheltered housing scheme that was here, creating this fantastic housing offer in Leigh.”

Wigan Council’s reference number for the application is A/19/87665/MAJLA.