New retirement apartments set to open in Wellington
A brand-new housing scheme for older residents is nearing completion in Wellington, with an open day scheduled for later this month.
Housing Plus Group is preparing to open the doors at Barnes Court, a purpose-built development at Ellen Ross Close designed for people aged 55 and over. The site features 66 apartments, 10 bungalows and communal spaces, with a full-time coordinator based on-site.
Sally Healey, who has been appointed as the retirement living coordinator, has already been meeting with those interested in moving in. Her role includes housing support, wellbeing checks and organising social events for the new community.
She said: “My aim is to help people stay independent while feeling part of a supportive community. Being involved from the start means I’ve already got to know many of the future residents and what matters to them.”
The apartments include 24-hour emergency alarms and secure video entry systems, though Sally noted that many people have misconceptions about this type of housing.
“A lot of people think retirement living is similar to a care home, but that’s not the case. You have your own apartment, your own front door, and full independence. The support is simply there if you want it. It’s not about age, it’s about lifestyle,” she said.
“People want support to be there, but they don’t want their lifestyle dictated. Barnes Court is designed around that balance. We’ll be encouraging people to put forward ideas for activities or improvements. It should be a place shaped by the people who live here.”
The development is intended to offer low-maintenance living for residents while providing the security of having staff available to help with repairs or wellbeing concerns.
“For months it’s just been a development. Soon it will be a home. Seeing people settle in, meet each other and start building their own community, that’s what I’m excited for,” Sally added.
An open event is being held at the site on Thursday 12 February between 1pm and 4pm. Members of the housing, lettings and money matters teams will be available to speak with anyone interested in an apartment.
Barnes Court is located at Ellen Ross Close, Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 1AS – For more information visit find-a-home.wrekin.com
