Trafford Housing Trust continues to lead in the provision of extra-care accommodation for the over 55s with launch of Limelight apartments in Old Trafford

Trafford Housing Trust is enhancing its reputation as a pioneer in the provision of specialist extra care facilities for the over 55s with the launch of new apartments as part of the Limelight scheme in Old Trafford.

The ground-breaking Limelight development features a total of 81 one and two-bed apartments comprising 21 two-bed extra care apartments offered on an Older People’s Shared Ownership (OPSO) basis and 60 one and two-bed properties available to rent.

The growing imbalance between demand and supply of OPSO properties in the North West of England is highlighted by figures from Help To Buy North West – the organisation which processes OPSO applications in the region – showing just 285 OPSO applications have been made across the North West since 2015.

The launch of Limelight builds on the Trust’s expertise in the provision of extra care facilities, being it’s third purpose-built scheme alongside those at Fiona Gardens in Sale and Newhaven at Altrincham, offering the over-55s a total of 190 tailor-made, extra care apartments across the three sites.

Show apartments at Limelight are already open and available for appointments and viewings – with numerous enquiries and visits already made by prospective occupants.

On completion in October, Limelight will be a unique, community-based facility offering a range of primary healthcare facilities including a GP surgery and pharmacy together with a library, café, multi-purpose event space, hairdresser and opticians. In addition, Limelight will offer a nursery and services aimed at families and young people, – making it a truly ‘intergenerational space’ available to everyone of all ages.

David Teasdale, manager of Limelight, said: “The fact that Help To Buy NW has only had to process 285 OPSO applications in the past two years shows that Limelight’s apartments are a welcome and much needed boost to a residential market where there clearly aren’t enough homes offered on an OPSO basis to an increasingly ageing population.

“We’re very proud to be leading the market in this area with what will be one of the UK’s

most progressive and accessible community spaces, bringing huge benefits to Old Trafford.

“Limelight will offer a truly integrated approach to health and wellbeing services, education and employment resources, leisure and social activities and the provision of advice and support.”