Wichelstowe – Care Home and Retirement Living Community

A joined-up approach to later living

Located within the wider Wichelstowe masterplan to the south-west of Swindon, this scheme forms part of a broader vision to create a well-connected and sustainable new community. Set within the Middle Wichel District, the development benefits from strong pedestrian, cycle and public transport links, providing easy access to the district centre and onward connections into Swindon.

The proposal bought together care provision and independent living, creating a balanced environment that supports residents at different stages of later life, while maintaining a clear sense of connection across the community.

A thoughtfully planned residential offer

The retirement living element comprises 185 apartments across a mix of one, two and three-bedroom homes, ranging in size from 613 sq ft to 968 sq ft. Each apartment is designed to offer comfortable, manageable living alongside the reassurance of community and shared facilities.

Complementing the apartments is a comprehensive range of communal amenities, designed to support both wellbeing and social interaction. These include a swimming pool, gym and exercise studio, alongside a restaurant and café that provide opportunities for informal dining and everyday convenience.

A residents’ lounge and library offer quieter spaces for relaxation, while a dedicated guest suite ensures that visiting family and friends can remain close by.

Creating a connected community

Later, re-planning of part of the area bought forward consent for an 80-bed care home.

 Positioned within a wider masterplan, the development is not designed in isolation, but as part of a cohesive neighbourhood. The emphasis on connectivity ensures that residents can engage easily with the surrounding area, whether through local amenities, green spaces or transport links.

The inclusion of both care provision and independent living within the same location allows for a more adaptable model of later living, where residents can remain within a familiar environment as their needs evolve.

A balanced and future-focused scheme

This development reflects a considered approach to later living, combining well-proportioned homes with a strong supporting infrastructure of shared spaces and services. By prioritising both independence and connection, the scheme demonstrates how thoughtful planning can create environments that are practical, sociable and responsive to changing needs over time.