U.S. style retirement villages and the U.K. market

With the UK population rapidly ageing, retirement developments are growing in demand. In recent years a handful of UK developers have undergone construction of U.S style 'retirement villages'. These new developments differ from traditional retirement properties as they are less care focused and are aimed at the still fit and active retiring generations who wish to enjoy an exclusive lifestyle. They therefore very much reflect U.S 'retirement villages' or 'gated communities' that Americans have been retiring to for many decades now. This study explores the potential market for 'retirement villages', not only through demographic research but by also gathering the publics opinion on this new lifestyle option. It then goes on to look at planning regulations and government policies that are affecting the growth and development of 'retirement villages'. In doing so the paper highlights some problematic areas in the Use Classes Order 1987 and the PPS3. Particularly when they are applied to these new forms of development. On top of this it also delves into the recent 'lifetime homes and lifetime neighbourhoods' government paper and touches on possible social issues resulting from this type of development. The study concludes by opening new avenues of research, such as, the extent that government guidance policies are being followed and whether or not the Use Classes Order 1987 is in need or amendment with specific reference to its definition of care.