A £1.8 million retirement development in Penwortham has been officially opened.

Eight energy-efficient bungalows have been built on Fairhaven’s existing Crownlee location.

The development was a joint venture with Lancashire-based construction partner Barnfield Group. It was designed by Preston-based town planners and architects Cassidy + Ashton, which was also behind the original 40-unit scheme.

With the additional new properties, Crownlee now offers 48 independent retirement homes.

The new two-bedroomed properties include air source heat pumps, underfloor heating and solar panels to maximise energy efficiency.

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Andrew Atkinson, managing director of Fairhaven, said: “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved here at Crownlee, and we’re aiming to repeat the model elsewhere in Lancashire.

“Demand has been strong for the new properties at Crownlee, which is down to a wider independent-living service offering that’s not just about bricks and mortar.”

Fairhaven, including its Crownlee development, owns and operates seven sites across Lancashire, managing 200 properties.

Alban Cassidy, director at Cassidy + Ashton, added: “It has been an absolute privilege to work on the Crownlee scheme, and it was wonderful to meet the residents yesterday to see how well the scheme has been received. 

“The new bungalows blend in very well whilst incorporating the latest green technology and a new landscaped garden area.  We feel that together these elements have greatly enhanced the entire development to benefit all residents.”

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MP for South Ribble, Katherine Fletcher, opened the development. Katherine said: “It was an honour to officially open these amazing bungalows that allow older people independent living in energy-efficient homes.

“Fairhaven is leading the way in this approach, and I am delighted it wishes to do more in Lancashire. It is meeting the growing demand for these types of homes and communities as the population ages. A bonus is the not-for-profit structure it operates under.

“I am sure these new buildings at Crownlee will be a success, and I know those who live in them will benefit for years to come.”

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