Inspired Villages appoint Thakeham to build net-zero apartments at state-of-the-art retirement village

Work is set to commence on the second phase of Ledian Gardens retirement village, in Kent, to build an additional 49 retirement apartments with a focus on sustainable living and providing vital housing in the area.

Managed by later living operator Inspired Villages, Ledian Gardens is set in the idyllic Kent countryside and historic village of Leeds, near Maidstone. The first phase of build saw the construction of 66 retirement properties, as well as a village centre, including a swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant and shop. Phase one completed in summer 2022 and is now open to residents and the local community. 

Work on the second phase will commence in March 2023, with leading South-East property developer, Thakeham, appointed to build an additional 49 apartment homes. Additional landscaping works will be part of the second phase of building and will include the creation of beautiful gardens and green open spaces, which will complete in autumn 2024. 

With a focus on sustainability, all of the homes on phase two will feature Ground Source Heat Pumps, Photovoltaic Panels and will be Net Zero Carbon (Regulated Energy). Inspired Villages takes its environmental and social impact seriously and is committed to being a sustainable company that makes a positive social impact on the communities it operates in.

Ledian Gardens will help to address the chronic shortage of later living housing in the UK, with the central facilities forming an important meeting point for residents and the local community. 

According to statistics, over 65s account for 18.2 percent of the local population. By 2030 it’s predicted there will be 125,000 over 65s in the catchment area and nearly 20,000 over 85s.

Jamie Bunce, CEO of Inspired Villages, commented: “This next phase marks an important point in our plans for the future of Ledian Gardens, providing additional homes for an ever-increasing market, as well as continuing our commitment to environmental sustainability.”

“Our country’s ageing demographic means there is a growing demand for an offering such as this – beautiful, later living homes in a safe setting that offer residents access to our incredible facilities, which focus on wellbeing and living a healthy, happy and independent life. 

“The first phase of Ledian Gardens was met with high praise and the central facilities already provide an important focal point for residents and the general public alike.” 

Calum Semark, Managing Director of Southern Home Counties for Thakeham said “As a company that creates sustainable communities, Thakeham is pleased to have been selected to deliver these high-quality later living homes for Inspired Villages in Kent”.

To find out more visit Ledian Gardens.