There were celebrations as MP Sir Oliver Letwin and Bridport Mayor Cllr Anne Rickard opened a new retirement development.

More than 40 people visited Alfred Lodge on Rax Lane to see the official ribbon cutting ceremony with Churchill’s regional managing director James Barnes and group land and planning director Andrew Burgess.

The new development comprises 26 one and two-bedroom private, self-contained apartments specially designed for the over 60s. Visitors to the event were given the opportunity to view the development’s show complex, before being treated to sparkling wine and canapes in the owners’ lounge.

Sir Oliver said: “It was a privilege to be invited to open Churchill’s fantastic new development and an honour to cut the ribbon. Retirement properties are a crucial part of helping to unblock the UK’s housing crisis and Churchill’s new development is a significant addition to the housing provision here in Bridport.

“Specialist retirement housing is proven to have a beneficial effect on older people’s health and wellbeing, be it from being in a modern, warm, well insulated home to having a sense of community and helps to beat loneliness. It was also heartening to meet the new Owners now calling Alfred Lodge home and hear so many positive stories from them.”

The apartments at Alfred Lodge have been designed to make life easier and more enjoyable in retirement years. All the apartments have spacious rooms throughout and an ideal combination of design and functionality. The fully fitted, stylish kitchens include a built in fridge and freezer, washer/dryer, plus hob and an oven, which is located at an easy-reach height. All of the properties also benefit from illuminated light switches for added convenience. Owners enjoy ultimate peace of mind from a fitted video entry system for the highest level of security and a 24 hour emergency call system.