Derelict, anti-social hotspot is transformed into affordable village living for over 55s in Meir
Date: 20/12/2021
Earlier this year we finished transforming the once derelict Station Hotel Pub in Meir into brand-new affordable homes for the over 55s. The former hotspot for anti-social behaviour is now home to 18 residents who share communal facilities such as café, restaurant and gym at neighbouring Rowan Village.
Elizabeth, one of the new residents, moved in after a health condition affected her mobility and needed better access and support. “I moved to Lime Tree Court earlier this year after suffering with awful pins and needles”, Elizabeth explains. “They got so bad that I lost the sensation in my feet, and it’s started to effect my balance.”
“The selling point of moving was there would always be people around me if I needed help. There’s also lift access to all floors here too.
“Now I’ve settled in I love it because I have the best of both worlds. I don’t like to live in people’s pockets, and I enjoy my own company. But living at Lime Tree Court we get full access to the facilities and social activities over the road at Rowan Village, also owned by Staffs Housing. It’s handy because it means I can nip down when I want without feeling overwhelmed.
“I’ve made friends with my neighbours here, and I socialise with the people at Rowan too. When a couple of us moved in, we went over to the village for the first time together. It wasn’t as overwhelming as going on our own.
“I’ve made full use of everything there is on offer too. I regularly use the shop and hairdressers and it’s so handy having it on my doorstep. There was a film night on a couple of weeks ago. A fellow resident showed us photos from his travels around Stone and Leek, and it was lovely. We even shared a festive mince pie and a sherry too!
The move means Elizabeth is now closer to her son too. Elizabeth explains. “I used to live in Trent Vale along the A34 and it was so noisy. It wasn’t close to my son, and if ever I fell or lost my balance, he couldn’t get to me quickly.
“It’s really handy because he lives just down the road from me now. But he also has peace of mind knowing I’m surrounded by my neighbours and staff at the village too. He visits me once a week and loves it here.
“I couldn’t recommend it enough. To anyone thinking of living in an over 55s independent living scheme, I would say do it. You get so much support, freedom, independence and are surrounded by people, activities and facilities, so you never feel alone.
Dave Allcock, Head of Housing says: “Here at Staffs Housing we build and let homes with resident’s needs in mind, creating places people are proud to call home. Lime Tree Court not only made a difference to the lives of new residents like Elizabeth but created a positive impact on the local community by removing an anti-social hotspot.”
