Westbury MP Andrew Murrison recently visited Chantry Court retirement village to learn more about its facilities and discuss the future of independent living for older people.
During his visit, the MP met with residents and toured the village, which offers one- and two-bedroom properties, and features amenities including a restaurant, bar, cinema and library.
Lex Cumber, from Untold Living, which operates Chantry Court, said, “It was delightful to meet Dr Andrew Murrison, who is clearly a very conscientious MP. It was important for him to come and see Chantry Court because we’re trying to raise the profile of the community as we’re quite tucked away.
“It was also important to demonstrate to him the benefits of integrated retirement communities (IRCs). We are a strong local employer, with around 20 to 30 people working across the community, and we are at 80% occupancy, looking after residents aged mid-50s and above with varying needs.
“Nearly 30% of our residents receive a care package, so we are helping to ease pressure on the NHS. We’re freeing up local housing, employing local people, and, while investing here in Westbury, we are also building more of these communities across the UK, with plans for up to 10 over the next decade.
“Speaking to MPs allows us to demonstrate how this type of housing benefits the community and economy. It’s also an opportunity to address one of the UK’s major social policy issues – the ageing population.”
Dr Murrison praised the retirement village, saying, “Chantry Court is very important. It’s been here for about 15 years and has a very high reputation. I’m very interested in the various models of independent living for retired people, which is still in its early stages in this country compared with others I’m familiar with.
“Clearly, residents are very happy with Chantry Court, and I look forward to seeing this model developed further so we can provide people with more choice in later years, helping them stay active, independent, and healthier for longer.”
Chantry Court is located on Chantry Lane in Westbury town centre. For more information, visit www.chantrycourt.com.
