The proposed development in Brierfield, a former depot site, has been submitted to Pendle Council for approval. Aim Applications Holdings Ltd, the applicant, aims to build two blocks of bungalows for rent, specifically designed for people aged 55 and over. This initiative could provide a much-needed solution to the critical shortage of suitable housing for older people in the area.
The proposed development is located along a bus route, making it a highly sustainable and accessible location for residents. The site is also situated near the town centre, providing easy access to local amenities and services. The applicant has ensured that the development will maintain the privacy of nearby existing houses, which surround the site, by incorporating design features that minimize overlooking and ensure a sense of separation.
Each of the 15 bungalows will have an open-plan kitchen and living space, bathroom, and one main bedroom, with the possibility of a small second bedroom or study. This design allows for a comfortable and practical living environment, catering to the needs of older people who value independence and ease of living. The bungalows will also have off-street parking, ensuring that residents have convenient access to their homes.
The applicant has emphasized the critical need for housing for older people, highlighting the direct and tangible effects of an increasingly ageing population on the housing market. The lack of suitable accommodation for older people can have significant social and economic impacts, including increased pressure on healthcare services and reduced economic activity. By providing affordable and accessible housing options, the proposed development can help to alleviate these pressures and promote a more sustainable and equitable community.
The development will also help to address the under-occupation of larger properties, freeing up homes for families who need them. This can have a positive impact on the local housing market, reducing the pressure on smaller homes and promoting a more balanced and sustainable housing mix. Additionally, the development can help to generate movement in the wider housing market, as older people down-size or right-size their living arrangements, freeing up larger homes for families who need them.
The applicant has committed to maintaining the site and managing the properties, ensuring that the development remains well-maintained and secure. This commitment to maintenance and management is essential for ensuring the long-term viability of the development and providing a safe and comfortable living environment for residents.
The proposed development has the potential to have a positive impact on the local community, promoting economic benefits, community engagement, and social cohesion. The development can generate economic benefits for the local area, as the applicant will be responsible for maintaining the site and providing housing for older people. This can have a positive impact on local businesses and services, promoting economic growth and stability.
The development can also promote community engagement and social interaction among residents, providing opportunities for socializing and building relationships. This can be particularly important for older people, who may be at risk of social isolation and loneliness. By providing a sense of community and social connection, the development can help to promote mental and physical health, reducing the risk of social isolation and loneliness.
Furthermore, the proposed development can help to promote a sense of community and social cohesion by providing a shared outdoor space for residents. This can be a valuable amenity, providing a safe and accessible space for residents to socialize, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors. The development can also incorporate features that promote sustainability and environmental responsibility, such as energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy sources.
In addition, the proposed development can help to promote a sense of pride and ownership among residents, by providing a safe and secure living environment. This can be particularly important for older people, who may be at risk of feeling vulnerable or isolated. By providing a sense of security and stability, the development can help to promote a sense of well-being and happiness among residents.
The proposed development is a positive step towards addressing the housing needs of older people in the area, providing a safe, comfortable, and practical living environment. The applicant’s commitment to maintaining the site and managing the properties ensures that the development will remain well-maintained and secure, providing a sense of stability and security for residents. The development can also have a positive impact on the local community, promoting economic benefits, community engagement, and social cohesion.
In conclusion, the proposed development in Brierfield offers a potential solution to the critical shortage of suitable housing for older people in the area. The benefits of the development, including housing for older people, down-sizing and right-sizing, sustainable and accessible location, parking and amenities, and maintenance and management, make it an attractive option for the local community. The development can have a positive impact on the local economy, housing market, and community engagement, making it a worthwhile investment for the area.