BUNGALOWS being built as part of a new community near Swansea are helping to tackle the shortage of homes for downsizers.

Research on behalf of retirement community operators found that while nearly 60% of surplus bedrooms are in homes occupied by the over 65s, a lack of age-friendly housing was limiting the options for many who wanted to downsize.

The report by the Centre for the Study of Financial Innovation called for the building of homes suitable for one and two-person households to be prioritised, along with better promotion of the benefits of downsizing.

Edenstone Homes is already building homes well-suited for downsizers across its developments. All 28 homes in the first phase of Parc Ceirw Garden Village in Morriston are bungalows, with four styles for buyers to choose from.

Sales director Adele McCoy explained:

“We recognise that there’s a need for new homes for buyers on every rung of the housing ladder, including those looking to downsize. Bungalows account for just 10% of domestic properties, according to Valuation Agency data, but we’re helping change that by building this style of home at Parc Ceirw Garden Village.

“In doing so we’re offering those considering downsizing a chance to be part of a new community where they will be able to stay active by making use of fitness trails, gym equipment and cycle hire facilities. It’s the ideal solution for empty nesters and those who want a more manageable home but aren’t yet ready to live on a retirement development.”

Bungalows at Parc Ceirw Garden Village are showcased by the three-bedroom Budleigh show home.

Behind its traditional exterior, inside the Budleigh is bright and modern.

The open plan kitchen, living room and dining room has a real wow factor. Windows installed below the eaves and above the bi-fold doors, effectively create a double height floor to ceiling glass wall bathing the property in lots of natural light.

Stylish, yet practical, the layout makes the most of the space available and allows homeowners maximum enjoyment of the property’s key attributes. The kitchen unit housing the hob divides the cooking space from the living area, while also offering budding home cooks a pleasant outlook, with views out through the bi-fold doors to the garden and neighbouring golf course beyond. The Budleigh features three bedrooms – two at the front, with the master bedroom and en-suite at the rear.

“The bungalows we’re building are a great option for a range of buyers, not just downsizers,” Adele added.

“First time buyers or couples could find that a bungalow is an alternative to an apartment, with the added bonus of having their own garden.”

The wider Parc Ceirw Garden Village development of circa 300 homes and community facilities across 35 acres will take around five years to complete. It will include a new community park featuring a play area, kick about area, woodland and nature trail. There will also be natural habitat areas, a community hub building, electric car charging facilities and gym equipment.

To find out more about Parc Ceirw Garden Village or take a virtual tour of the Budleigh show home see https://edenstonehomes.com/parc-ceirw.