Inspired Villages is to develop a retirement village in Stamford, Lincolnshire.

Inspired Villages, Morris Homes and Burghley Land have entered into an agreement for the St Martin’s Park project on a brownfield site formerly occupied by American multinational corporation Cummins.

South Kesteven District Council exchanged contracts with the three developers. The council purchased the site in 2018 which, combined with adjacent land owned by Burghley House Preservation Trust, makes up a 14.7-hectare development site which will feature an integrated retirement community, designated commercial area, a mixed-use area, and a range of residential properties, including affordable homes, plus areas of green and open space.

Morris Homes will provide the residential development and Burghley Land the commercial development.

South Kesteven District Council’s cabinet member for property and public engagement, councillor Richard Cleaver, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have reached such a significant milestone on this project. This is a major development that will transform a derelict site into a thriving addition to the Stamford community. It will be a high-quality, well-designed and sustainable development with cycle routes and walkways into the town centre.”

Shaun Whelan, development director for Inspired Villages commented: “The need for more age-appropriate housing for over-65s in the UK is significant. We currently operate nine integrated retirement communities in the UK with a further two opening later this year. We will use all our experience and knowledge to ensure that when complete, the village in Stamford is a vibrant and thriving space that positively impacts on the lives of residents and the wider community.”

Outline planning permission for the site was granted in 2021 and the next stage in the planning process will see the three developers submit reserved matters early next year.