SITE work has started on a new retirement complex in the Bradford district.

McCarthy Stone applied for planning permission to build the development on a former industrial site on Bradford Road, Idle, in 2022.

The plans, consisting of 51 properties, were approved by Bradford Council last summer. 

The company said the scheme promises to provide much-needed retirement housing in the area as part of the Government-backed shared ownership scheme.

This scheme provides a helping hand for retirees by reducing the upfront cost of a new retirement living property - through providing a choice of ownerships of up to 75 per cent. 

Declan Fishwick, business development manager at McCarthy Stone, said: "Our new Idle development is aimed specifically at enhancing the availability of more affordable housing in and around Bradford through the McCarthy Stone's shared ownership scheme in partnership with Homes England, so retirees can enjoy the lifestyle they’ve dreamed of without having to commit to the full purchase price."

McCarthy Stone said it will employ modern methods of construction (MMC) when building the retirement complex.

This reduces environmental impact and build time, and helps deliver energy efficient homes.

Mr Fishwick added: "We've been using MMC since 2021 and it now forms an integral aspect of our new build programme, with the ability to cut overall build times by several weeks.

"Indeed, MMC is a cornerstone of our drive to be a net-zero business by 2030."

The properties are being built on the former COS Presentations site.

This was first earmarked for development in early 2020 when a planning application to flatten industrial buildings on the plot of land and replace them with 14 homes was approved.

Commenting on its new retirement complex, a McCarthy Stone spokesperson said: "Located just a mile from the village centre, the new addition to Bradford Road will encourage those aged 60 and over to live their retirement to the fullest.

"Well-maintained gardens can be enjoyed all year round while an elegant communal lounge will sit at the heart of day-to-day life, providing ample space for regular social activities.

"For peace of mind, a house manager will be on-site during office hours to help keep everything running smoothly, and with all the latest safety and security features, you and your family will have peace of mind knowing that there is a 24-hour emergency call system, intruder alarms, fire detection and a door camera entry system included as standard."