Seizing the 'New Town' opportunity

The development of new towns presents a unique opportunity to plan and build communities which enable older people to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. In this article, we explore the opportunities arising at Northstowe, a new town of 10,000 homes in South Cambridgeshire. The vision for Northstowe is a bold one. The needs of older people are being taken into account in every aspect of development, not only in the design and build of properties to address housing needs, but also the ways in which older people will inhabit the new town overall. The public spaces are to be welcoming and inclusive, the recreational opportunities available to all ages, and people will be enabled to stay active and healthy as they age, with the support they need to stay independent at home.