Expansion will include ‘true’ villages employing 80-100 people

Retirement homes developer Anchor has announced plans to deliver 1,100 new properties across the south of England.

The development drive will include the what small settlements of around 150 people in a mix of apartments, houses and specialist care homes.

Anchor is looking to replicate its award-Denham Garden Village scheme in Buckinghamshire.

Each village will employee 80 to 100 people and will typically include a 36-bed care home surrounded by a mix of “close care” and “assisted living” properties.

Anchor is currently seeking sites for the properties, which are expected to be completed by 2015.

Anchor chief executive Jane Ashcroft said: “With nearly one in five of us expected to reach 100, our ageing population provides real opportunities for forward-thinking organisations to develop groundbreaking housing and care. In a tough economic climate it will also provide a real boost to the jobs market.”