MP opens multi-million pound retirement living scheme in Oxfordshire

MP Victoria Prentis has officially opened a new multi-million pound retirement living scheme in the centre of Banbury labelled “a credit to the town”.

The Member of Parliament for North Oxfordshire unveiled a special commemorative plaque to celebrate the opening of Park Gardens – our new £12m, four-storey retirement living village on Bath Road. 



The event was held on Thursday (10 October) and saw new residents, Banbury Mayor councillor John Colegrave, and representatives from Banbury College, Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council come together with colleagues to mark the culmination of the three-year project.

Returning to the site she visited during the construction phase, Ms Prentis joked with guests that the curtain unveiling had run smoother than current events in Parliament and praised Bromford for bringing “good quality housing” to such a central location. The 78-apartment complex has been built exclusively for over 55s and is situated adjacent to People’s Park just a short walk from the town centre.

“I think it looks great. It’s been wonderful to see it grow over the past few years. What is important is that people are clearly very happy here,” she said.

“There is a need for good quality housing solutions for people and we need a variety of options in what is a rapidly growing area. Having a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't really work anymore as I know from my own personal experience.

“This is a nice location for grandchildren to come and visit and they can play safely in the garden here. And it’s great that it’s in the centre of town so everyone living here can feel part of the community.”



Proud

Mayor Colegrave, who took a tour of the scheme, said: “Park Gardens is going to provide something which the town currently hasn’t got and I am really impressed – it is a credit to the town. I was surprised by what a high standard it has been finished to and I can tell residents are going to be very happy here so I wish Bromford every success with it.”

Executive director of new homes, Martyn Blackman, added: “I am personally really proud of what Bromford has achieved here and it’s clear that the whole team has taken so much pride in delivering this project.

“It is great to see so many customers living in the scheme and for our vision to become a reality. We really wanted to build a community that caters for all and for those with different needs. We have created a place where our customers have a safe and secure home which will allow them to thrive in their retirement years.”



Park Gardens has been built on land previously belonging to Banbury and Bicester College and residents started moving into the one and two bedroom apartments towards the end of the summer. The scheme is complemented by a range of on-site facilities including a café bistro and bar, lounge, activity studio, gym, hair and beauty salon, and landscaped gardens.

People interested in Park Gardens should call 01295 272848 or, alternatively, head to this page for further information. To view more photos from the day please check out our Flickr account.