Open event as newest Swindon retirement community opens

McCarthy Stone is opening its doors to local retired people to celebrate the official opening of the Locks View Retirement Living development in Wichelstowe.

With the first homeowners already settling in, the event is billed as an exciting occasion for both new homeowners and anyone interested in seeing what life could be like there.

The celebrations take place at the development on Peglars Way on Wednesday 17 September from noon to 3pm, where guests will be treated to a glass of fizz and light refreshments, as well the chance to enjoy live music and the cutting of a special cake being baked for the occasion. 

They will also have the opportunity to take a guided tour of the development and ask the McCarthy Stone team any questions about retirement living.

Rebecca Johnson, Sales Director at McCarthy Stone, added: “We’re excited to join Wichelstowe’s newest residents as well as local retirees and their families in celebrating our official grand opening. 

"As the first homeowners at the development get settled in, this event is a great way to kickstart their retirement at Locks View.

“This new community provides a unique brand of retirement living in the local area with independence and community at its heart. 

"With a wealth of social activities on offer and a friendly house manager on-hand, homeowners and their families can enjoy peace of mind that everything is taken care of, and help is nearby.”

The event is expected to popular, so guests are asked to book in advance by calling 0800 153 3076.

The Retirement Living development by McCarthy Stone has been designed to help to meet the needs of local retirees looking to ‘right-size’ by moving into specialist housing, in turn freeing up much-needed housing stock in the area for first-time buyers and families.

The apartments are conveniently situated close to all the amenities of the residential area, including a Waitrose and many shops, pubs and restaurants. 

Locks View is within a stone’s throw of nature too. Close to the wildlife haven of the Wilts and Berks Canal, Wichelstowe has over 200 acres of open space, thousands of trees, 1.5 acres of allotments and over 12 kilometres of walkways and cycle paths. 

There’s a thriving local community, with the nearby StoweAway Community Centre offering activities such as yoga, fitness classes and board game nights.

Purchase prices for a one and two-bedroom retirement apartment at Locks View start from £253,500 for a one-bedroom apartment and £320,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. 

Apartments are also available to rent, with one-bedroom apartments from £1,865 per calendar month. Renting an apartment provides a quick and convenient way of moving to what may be a more suitable and manageable home, but without the commitment of ownership, and incurring the costs involved in selling and purchasing another property.

Additionally, for over 55s, the Older Persons Shared Ownership (OPSO) scheme is a Government-backed initiative and helps to reduce the costs of buying a retirement property, making it possible to enjoy a safe, secure and independent lifestyle for less. 

Key to shared ownership is that purchasers do not pay the full market value of the property, with a range of ownership options allowing them to purchase up to 75 percent at which point there is no rent to pay on the remaining share. 

At Locks View, a 75 percent share of a one-bedroom apartment is £180,000 with no rent to pay on the remaining 25 percent share. 

Alternatively, a lower percentage share can be purchased, with an affordable monthly rent payable on the remaining share. For example, purchase a 50 percent share of the same apartment for £120,000 and pay a monthly rent of £275.

Bringing with it many opportunities to prioritise homeowners’ wellbeing, the development houses a spacious, well-appointed lounge, described as ideal for forging new friendships, and beautiful, landscaped gardens overlooking the canal. A guest suite is described as offering the perfect solution to hassle-free hosting.

For peace of mind, a House Manager is on-site during office hours to oversee the day-to-day running of the development, with 24/7 emergency call points and a door camera entry system to provide additional reassurance.

More than nine out of 10 customers would recommend McCarthy Stone to a friend, ensuring it has received the full Five Star award for customer satisfaction from the Home Builders Federation. McCarthy Stone is the only UK housebuilder of any size or type to achieve this rating every year it has taken part in the survey.

To discover more about Retirement Living at Locks View or to book a place at the official grand opening, people can call 0800 153 3076 or visit www.mccarthystone.co.uk/locks-view.

Shared Ownership prices are subject to availability. Other shares are available. Terms and conditions can be found at www.mccarthystone.co.uk/shared-ownership.