Construction begins on first phase of Hampshire retirement village

Award-winning retirement communities operator Inspired Villages has begun work on state-of-the-art retirement village Ampfield Meadows, near Chandlers Ford, Hampshire. The scheme will create 149 later living homes and address the shortage of suitable homes for over 65s in the area.

To commemorate the start of work, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, Caroline Noakes joined several members of the local council, including Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Mark Cooper for a breaking ground ceremony.

When complete, Ampfield Meadows will offer 149 retirement apartments for over 65s focused around a vibrant village centre designed to promote resident wellbeing and help them live healthy, independent lives for longer.

The village centre will boast a range of impressive facilities, including a swimming pool and wellness centre, as well as a brasserie, hair and beauty salon, shop and library - all of which will be open to both residents and the wider community.

Ampfield Meadows will be Inspired Villages second later living community in Hampshire, joining Bramshott Place near Liphook. The decision to expand in Hampshire was a response to the vast disparity between supply and demand in the area for specialist housing. In 2017 it was estimated that there were over 41,000 over 65s in Hampshire, which is expected to rise to 91,600 by 2035 – an increase of over 200%.

The scheme will not only help to meet this local demand, but also create significant benefits for Hampshire’s health and social care system, which has never been more important in light of the strain on health and social care services caused by Covid-19.

Inspired Villages has appointed specialist later living developer Castleoak as construction partner for the project, which is due to complete in 2023, thanks to their knowledge and expertise in the sector which will help to create an exemplary development.

During construction phase, Ampfield Meadows will create 110 construction jobs per annum over a four-year period and in excess of 40 permanent jobs once complete, providing a further boost for the local economy.

Jamie Bunce, CEO of Inspired Villages, comments: “Our philosophy is centred around resident’s holistic wellbeing - looking after their physical, social, financial and mental health and encouraging them to enjoy a healthy, happy and independent life.

“Ampfield Meadows will reflect the needs of today’s retirees, who want to continue living independently, and yet take reassurance from knowing support is available should they need it.

“The village will provide age-appropriate homes for an ever-increasing market, as well as incredible facilities that will benefit both residents and the local community and I look forward to seeing the project progress.”

Col Knight, founder of Castleoak, said: “The physical spaces in which we live are proven to help us live longer, happier and more fulfilling lives. That’s why we’ve chosen to specialise in creating homes and amenities for retirees, like those which will form Ampfield Meadows, for over 30 years.

“Place-making begins at the start of the build and will carry throughout as we maintain a safe and considerate environment and work to deliver a finish of the highest quality of which future residents can be truly proud. Place-making will then continue in the very capable hands of Inspired Villages, which has a reputation for being an excellent operator of community-integrated retirement villages. We’re proud to be part of bringing these much-needed homes to Hampshire.”

To find out more about Ampfield Meadows, please visit: https://www.inspiredvillages.co.uk/village/ampfield-meadows