Bradford is set to welcome a new development of 51 retirement apartments, thanks to a financial boost of more than £340,000 from public funds. McCarthy Stone, a leader in retirement living solutions, has initiated construction on the development located on a former industrial site off Bradford Road in Idle. The total cost of this project is projected at £10.7 million.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) is poised to support the development with a grant from the Brownfield Housing Fund during its upcoming meeting. The fund, part of a government-backed initiative aimed at reviving long-neglected brownfield sites, seeks to address market failures by assisting financially in areas where development costs exceed potential returns.

Challenges such as the site’s former use as a quarry have driven up development costs, making public funding crucial for the project’s viability. The scheme is not only set to benefit from WYCA’s grant but will also receive a further £371,000 from Homes England, reinforcing the significant support for creating housing tailored to the needs of older residents in Bradford.

This initiative comes in response to a noticeable increase in Bradford’s ageing population, highlighting a growing demand for specialist retirement properties. The new apartments will be strategically located near essential amenities and public open spaces, ensuring easy access to shopping, healthcare, and leisure facilities, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its future residents.

Set for completion in spring 2025, the development marks a significant contribution to meeting the local community’s needs, providing affordable and accessible housing options for the elderly. This project represents a forward-thinking approach to urban development, reimagining unused spaces for the benefit of the wider community. The WYCA’s Place, Regeneration, and Housing Committee will formalise the funding decision in their upcoming meeting, further solidifying the project’s foundation.