Elderly can keep their dignity in care village

8:42am Monday 26th November 2007

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WORK is set to start on a £65million scheme to provide care for the elderly in Winsford.

The care village in Hambleton Way will provide 100 rooms for elderly people as well as restaurants, salons, shops, fitness suites, gardens, cafe and IT suites.

County councillor Pam Booher said: "Many elderly people want to be able to retain their independance and this will enable them to do that.

"They can get their hair cut and lots of other things on site which makes things so much easier for them."

The project is part of a scheme by Cheshire County Council to meet the demands of a rising percentage of older people. By 2031, 26 per cent of the population in Cheshire will be over 65.

Clr Booher said: "It is very important that we care for the elderly and it is becoming even more important that we build care facilities like this given the increasing number of elderly people.

"The Older People's Network has been consulted all along the way with this which I think is very important because it means they have a say on the facilities they need in the care village. I am absolutey delighted and I think it will be excellent for Winsford."

Planning permission was given for the care village in October last year and this week Powerminster Gleeson Services has been given the contract to carry out the work.

Clr Booher said: "This has been going on for a long time so to get to this point is pleasing.

"I saw presentations from several companies who wanted the contract and I was very impressed.

"I know some people have questioned the care village but I think now it is going ahead people will see how good it will be for elderly people in Winsford."

The care village is expected to be open by early 2009.