1. The provision of affordable housing in line with policy HOM 5 will be supported where the provision is for units that provide accommodation whereby occupants could reasonably support themselves.
  2. is well-integrated with the wider neighbourhood;
  3. offers easy access to community facilities, local services and public transport;
  4. meets parking standards across a range of users;
  5. includes suitable outdoor space for both residents and visitors; and
  6. is designed to reflect the principles of relevant best practice;

Explanation

  1. The projections for Stockport indicate an increased ageing of the population over time. Consequently, a range of housing options will be required to meet the needs of older people. Homes should allow people to live independently and retain control over their accommodation and services. The requirements of the policy seek to deliver housing which will meet a range of needs for older people's residential accommodation.
  2. A key strategic objective for Greater Manchester is to increase the supply of homes that meet the needs and aspirations of all ages. Locally, Stockport are working towards becoming an age-friendly borough and have developed an All Age Living prospectus99. When proposing housing for older people and age-friendly places we will expect developments to reflect the most relevant best practice. Specialist housing for older people must incorporate infection prevention and control principles in its design and operation, in line with NHS England Health Building Note 00-09 and the Health and Social Care Act 2008 Code of Practice. This includes measures to support ventilation, hygiene, and outbreak management, ensuring resilience against infectious disease risks.
  3. Current best practice also includes the design principles such as those set out in the Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation (HAPPI) Report. For much of the housing that will be suited for older people there is no reason why this should separate from other forms of residential provision. Its inclusion within wider housing developments is an important part of creating sustainable mixed communities and for this reason the policy encourages such development.
  4. Specialist accommodation is not limited to that for older people, but it can include care homes, extra care housing and sheltered housing. Such schemes should be able to demonstrate need and how they are contributing to the delivery of council

99 See

https://democracy.stockport.gov.uk/documents/s154184/Enc.%201%20for%20All%20Age%20Living%20Prospectus%20Healthy%20Happy%20Homes.pdf