Stafford residents celebrate transformed outdoor space thanks to lottery funding 

Residents at a retirement living community in Stafford are celebrating the transformation of their outdoor space following major improvements funded by a £15,700 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund. 

The funding has helped revitalise the shared outdoor space at Oxleathers Court, alongside 13 other retirement living schemes managed by Housing Plus Group. New outdoor furniture and decorative planters have breathed new life into the grounds, creating a welcoming space where neighbours can connect, relax and enjoy the outdoors. 

Janet Scott, a resident at Oxleathers Court, said the area had become tired and underused.  

The 80-year-old said: “It looks great and we have somewhere lovely to sit outside.” 

Fellow resident Sandra Bishop has planted a rose tree in the newly improved outdoor space in memory of her late husband.  

The 78-year-old said: “I sit out there with my son and his wife when they come to visit and it’s really nice. 

“My late husband bought me a rose tree, and I’ve planted it outside in the new area. It’s peaceful and means a lot to me.”  

Debra Tutty, Retirement Living Officer at Oxleathers Court, said: “Residents enjoy going outside to read a book, relax and spend time in the fresh air. It’s almost like having another room for them to enjoy.  

“It’s been wonderful to see residents making use of the space, chatting with neighbours and spending time with visitors. 

“We’d like to thank the National Lottery Community Fund for helping make this project possible and creating a space that is already bringing so much enjoyment to our residents.” 

Oxleathers Court, which is managed by Housing Plus Group, provides 66 retirement living apartments for people aged 55 and over.