Lucy Powell, MP for Manchester Central, has visited the newly developed retirement community in Failsworth.

The retirement home is ran by McCarthy Stone and was approved for development in 2023.

The Labour MP paid a visit to the community with McCarthy Stone’s business development manager, Declan Fishwick to take a closer look at the development and tour both the communal facilities the show apartments.

Sydney Grange, on Ashton Road West, is made up of a collection of low maintenance and energy efficient apartments designed to support over 60s.

Properties at Sydney Grange are exclusively available as part of a government-backed scheme in conjunction with Homes England.

The scheme, named Older Persons Shared Ownership (OPSO), provides a helping hand by reducing the upfront cost of a new retirement property, through providing a choice of home ownership options up to 75 per cent.

Monthly rent is payable on the remaining share except where the property is purchased for the maximum share of 75 per cent.

Lucy Powell said: "It was a pleasure to visit Sydney Grange and see the fantastic work being done to create a welcoming and supportive community for retirees in Failsworth.

"Developments like this are so important in providing older people with the chance to live independently while also being part of a community.

"It’s great to see more affordable options like this available locally here in Manchester Central, helping people to enjoy their retirement in comfort and security."

The properties at Sydney Grange are currently available to reserve off-plan, where almost 50% of the properties have now been reserved, and first occupants are expected to make the move later this year.

Business development manager at McCarthy Stone, Declan Fishwick said: “We are delighted Lucy Powell was able to take the time to visit Sydney Grange.

“We are experiencing a housing crisis in the UK, where there are not enough suitable homes to support our ageing population, and this is leading to many older people not being able to access the support and the care they need.

"Our Failsworth development is aimed specifically at enhancing the availability of more affordable housing in and around the Manchester area through the OPSO scheme, so retirees can enjoy the lifestyle they’ve dreamed of without having to pay the full price.”

The new development is set to meet the needs of those aged 60 and over seeking an independent retirement with community at its heart.

Future homeowners will benefit from access to superb shared spaces, including maintained gardens and a communal lounge, where new friendships flourish.

Peace of mind comes from having state-of-the-art security features, including a 24-hour emergency call system, in every property and a House Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of the development.