Plans for 'UK’s first' purpose built apartments for LGBT+ older people take next step

Proposals to build 100 apartments as part of the UK’s first purpose built LGBT+ older person’s housing scheme in south Manchester have taken the next step.

The Extra Care scheme on Russell Road in Whalley Range, situated on the site of the former Spire Hospital, has been in development since 2017.

Anchor Hanover, England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for older people, is spearheading the project in partnership with Manchester City Council and LGBT Foundation.

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First consultations on the proposals took place last month, which shared the ‘initial thinkins’ of the planned development.

The scheme aims to deliver around 100 one- and two-bedroom apartments, alongside a restaurant/bistro, lounges, treatment rooms and landscaped outdoor amenity space.

Residents will be required to be aged 55 years or over, and the scheme will be inclusive of members and non-members of the LGBT+ community from Manchester.

The development will incorporate a number of smart design features in order to minimise its carbon impact, such as solar power, LED lighting, air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points at the on-site parking space.

Following the first stage of consultations, residents are now being encouraged to view the proposals online and share their thoughts via a feedback form which will be open until February 23.

Charles Taylor, Anchor’s Director of New Business, said: “The first consultation was well attended and we got some great feedback.

“We’re looking forward to presenting our updated proposals for further views before we submit a planning application to Manchester City Council.