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BANCON AND CHAP JOINT VENTURE IN THE RUNNING FOR SENIOR HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR

Today (Thursday 5 May), Aberdeen’s Woodland Grove, which offers exclusive, luxury living for people aged over 55, was short listed for Senior Housing Development of the Year in the 2011 Scottish Home Awards.

Woodland Grove, located in Milltimber, is a joint venture between two long-established north-east developers, Bancon Homes and CHAP Homes.  It is one of the first developments of its kind in Scotland and was the only property north of the border to reach the Daily Telegraph’s list of ‘Britain’s Most Desirable Retirement Properties’ in 2010.  The Woodland Grove concept is perfect for those looking to downsize, release equity and free up time to ensure a luxurious and manageable third age.

Bill Burr, managing director of CHAP Homes, said: “This is a great honour.  Woodland Grove is pioneering a brand new way to live in Scotland and it’s brilliant to be recognised for this.  The UK’s aging population inspired us to consider alternative housing options.  Although retirement villages are increasingly popular, they are often associated with ageing and infirmity.  This contrasts with today’s fit, healthy retirees.  Therefore, age-specific accommodation, a well-tested concept in the USA and Scandinavia, was adopted.  House builders must reflect the way people live their lives.”

Shona Davidson, sales manager at Bancon Homes, said: “We faced the challenge of selling an unusual concept to a sceptical market.  The right messaging was essential .  We wanted to eradicate age stereotypes: we are not a retirement village and we are definitely not a care home.  Our target market is those who are ’50-just,’ as well as those who are ‘50-plus.’  This consistent, powerful messaging has ensured steady sales despite the recession.  So far, 31 homes have been sold to couples, single men and single women.  Later this month, we’re opening two new show homes.”

The Scottish Home Awards celebrate the best housing in the country.  More than 150 entries were received in the programme.  This was a 20% increase on last year.  Other developments shortlisted for Senior Housing Development of the Year were:  Albyn Housing Society, Birchfield Court, Nethybridge; Austin.Smith.Lord, Pearce Street, Govan;  Caledonian Retreats, Firhall Village, Nairn and Dunedin Canmore, The Quarries, Edinburgh.  The winners will be announced at a black tie dinner on Thursday 9 June at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre.  For more information, visit www.scottishhomeawards.com

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