SIXTY apartments have opened in Amesbury for older residents who wish to live independently.

Evergreen Court held its official opening earlier this week, showing off a mixture of one and two-bed apartments, a restaurant, activity rooms, a lounge and gardens.

Additionally communal spaces, level access showers, well positioned plug sockets and a 24/7 emergency call system are just some of the features in the £11.2million development, included to benefit residents over 55-years-old.

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Councillor Richard Clewer, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for housing, said he is "pleased" the residents are settling in well and "enjoying the facilities available", adding: "The apartments have been designed especially for older people who want to live independently as they grow older or as their needs change.

“It is important we encourage and help our older residents to enjoy their independence in suitable housing which meets their needs now and for the future.”

The opening ceremony began with music from local ukulele band the Salisbury Pluckers, before being officially opened by Amesbury area board member Robert Yuill, Mayor of Amesbury Margaret Strange, and pupils from Amesbury Archer primary school.

The complex was complete in September and since then 40 properties have been allocated.

Residents Sam and Pat Blakelsey said: “We love being here, we are very pleased with all the facilities, it’s a great idea to put this all together in one building, it’s such a good design for older people.”