THE first residents have started moving into a new retirement village in Chorley.

The Primrose Gardens development on Fleet Street, will accommodate those aged 55 and above with extra care needs and will promote independence, reduce social isolation and give care and support.

There has been huge demand for the apartments and the authority is now welcoming its first residents who are settling into their new surroundings.

Cllr Alistair Bradley, leader of Chorley Council, said: “Having taken a look inside it is amazing and I’m sure everyone who visits will be impressed by how it looks.

“We’ve had lots of interest and we expect to have everyone moved in over the next couple of months.

“It will also help to boost that part of the town centre as all the residents will use its services being close to the main shopping areas.”

Primrose Gardens has 65 one and two-bed apartments over three floors and is on the site of the former St John Ambulance Hall.

The development boasts a dance floor, which replaces the one that was lost while the old buildings were demolished, and it will also be home to a café and hair salon.

“We all know the challenges the health service is facing and this is an example of us stepping up as a district council to do our bit to support the ageing population,” added Cllr Bradley. “Not only will we be able to support those who live there we will be able to link them into other public services so it will really make a difference to everyone. All the residents are from the borough, or have direct links to Chorley.”