Gort scheme sets template

Plans for first-of-its-kind assisted living scheme in Gort could pave the way for a ‘revolution’ in housing for older people in Ireland.

The development, according to those behind it, would provide a blueprint for all towns on creating suitable housing and supports for the elderly – marking a move away from nursing home-focussed care for those who don’t need it.

Development company Mount Fuji Ltd has applied for planning permission to construct 62 dwellings for older people across six buildings ranging from one to three storeys – developing the 2.9-acre former Gort Mill site opposite the train station.

In documents outlining the plans, it is stated that the site was selected as one that would facilitate social interaction and “provide appropriate support for our older people”.

“Located just 200m from the centre of Gort, this site is uniquely positioned to facilitate ageing-in-place with a comprehensive range of local amenities, including Gort Train Station, shops, banks and churches, either adjacent to the site or within a very short walk to encourage independent living in the community.”

A number of measures in the proposal seek to encourage interaction between existing residents in Gort and the new residents at the development – a tearoom facility that will be open to the public forms a key part of that.

Also included for is a communal space and an extensive landscaping scheme for the site and its surrounds – tying in with the increasingly popular river walkway.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App

Download the Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App to access to Galway’s best-selling newspaper.

Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.

Or purchase the Digital Edition for PC, Mac or Laptop from Pagesuite  HERE.

Get the Connacht Tribune Live app
The Connacht Tribune Live app is the home of everything that is happening in Galway City and county. It’s completely FREE and features all the latest news, sport and information on what’s on in your area. Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.