New Retirement Village Developments in the UK to Watch in 2025

Retirement Village Development Plans in Liverpool

A planned retirement development in the Liverpool area is McCarthy & Stone’s project at St Chad’s Drive, Kirkby, Liverpool, Merseyside (L32 8RE). This development is currently in the planning or construction phase, and properties are not yet on the market.

• Updates: Interested individuals can register interest with McCarthy & Stone by calling 0800 201 4811 or signing up for email updates on their website.
• Current pricing information: Pricing details have not been released. Early registration may provide earlier access to information on available properties.
• Property types: Developments typically include one-bedroom and two-bedroom retirement apartments or bungalows designed for independent living, with communal amenities and support.

Price Range in Liverpool Area (North West England)

Although prices for the St Chad’s Drive development are not available, prices in the North West region generally are:

• One-bedroom retirement apartments: Approximately £215,900, with some units starting near £196,000 at locations such as Brideoake Court.
• Two-bedroom retirement apartments: Approximately £304,000.
• Rentals: Renting is available in some retirement communities, with typical one-bedroom rents around £1,344 per month, and two-bedroom rents near £2,089 per month.

Developments similar to McCarthy & Stone’s tend to focus on properties for purchase, though rental options vary by site.

Retirement Living Options and Pricing in Bristol

As of 2025, there are no new retirement villages officially announced or under construction specifically in Bristol. For the Bristol area and the broader South West England region, the following estimates reflect existing market conditions:

• Average purchase prices for retirement homes in the South West tend to be higher than in the North West:
  • One-bedroom apartments: Around £260,000.
  • Two-bedroom apartments: Approximately £403,600.
• Rental prices in the region typically average £1,865 per month for one-bedroom units and about £2,742 per month for two-bedroom units.
• Premium retirement apartments, such as one-bedroom units at The Vincent, have listed prices starting around £375,000.

Those interested in retirement living options in Bristol are encouraged to consult local property listings or contact retirement living providers directly for current availability.

Understanding Costs Beyond the Purchase Price

Purchasing or renting a retirement property involves additional ongoing expenses beyond the initial price or rent.

Typical Fees and Additional Expenses

• Deposit: Buying a retirement property often involves a deposit around £1,000; renting may require a deposit closer to £500.
• Service/management fees: These average about £524 per month and typically cover:
  • Maintenance of property and grounds
  • Staffing and security
  • Community facilities such as lounges, gyms, and pools
  • Support services available 24/7
• Ground rent: Usually applicable for leasehold properties, ranging from £400 to £500 annually.
• Contingency fees: Some communities may charge additional fees for major repairs or improvements.
• Utilities and council tax: These costs vary by property and usage and should be budgeted separately.
• Insurance: Buildings insurance is generally included in service charges; contents insurance, recommended for residents, can average between £51 and £94 per year for those over 70 in the UK.

Options Between Buying and Renting Retirement Properties

Individuals considering retirement housing can generally choose to buy or rent, each option carrying particular considerations:

• Buying:
  • Often requires cash purchase or bridging finance, as traditional mortgages may be limited.
  • Provides property ownership but also involves ongoing service and management fees.
  • Suitable for those planning longer-term residence.
• Renting:
  • Can offer increased flexibility and lower upfront costs.
  • Does not build equity and may affect inheritance considerations.
  • Some rental options include all-inclusive billing packages.
  • Available primarily in selected villages; many new developments focus on sales.

For instance, McCarthy & Stone’s Liverpool development appears to focus on sales, while providers like Audley offer both purchase and limited rental options at some sites.

Overview of Luxury Retirement Living in the UK

For those interested in luxury retirement living, providers such as Audley manage over 20 communities across the UK:

• Properties range from one to four bedrooms, including apartments, cottages, and houses.
• Facilities often include amenities such as health spas, restaurants, swimming pools, lounges, gardens, and wellness centers.
• On-site support and care services are available to assist residents while supporting independent living.

Currently, no new Audley developments are specifically planned for Liverpool or Bristol, but existing communities serve as examples of luxury retirement options.

Approaches to Finding a Retirement Home in 2025

To stay informed and increase the likelihood of securing a retirement property:

• Register early: Providers like McCarthy & Stone offer registration for updates that may include early pricing and property availability.
• Attend open days and information sessions: Visiting show homes can help assess living options, amenities, and community atmosphere.
• Review all fees carefully: Understanding full costs such as purchase price, service charges, ground rent, and any deferred management fees is essential.
• Consider buying versus renting: Decisions should account for personal finances, lifestyle, and length of planned residence.
• Seek professional advice: Financial, legal, and retirement living advisors can provide guidance during the decision-making process.

In 2025, new retirement village development in Liverpool includes McCarthy & Stone’s proposed project at St Chad’s Drive, with pricing and availability expected to be announced in due course. Bristol currently has no announced new retirement villages, but existing options and pricing reflect a generally higher market than Liverpool’s region.

Prospective retirees are advised to consider all costs and lifestyle factors comprehensively, engage early with developers, and seek professional guidance to support their retirement housing decisions.

Sources

• McCarthy & Stone New Retirement Developments
• Lottie: Average Retirement Home Costs in the UK (2025)
• Audley Luxury Retirement Villages

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