The recent publication of specific Government advice on planning for disabled and older people is welcome as is the recognition that local plans need to provide for specialist housing for older people where a need exists. Developers will be interested that it recommends that innovative and diverse housing models will need to be considered where appropriate.

Encouraging the elderly to downsize is another step in resolving the housing crisis.   However, will policies still expect senior living to provide the same benefits as other C3 accommodation such as affordable housing and CIL contributions?   

But perhaps the biggest challenge is the need to design a type of senior housing that people will willingly swap their former family home for instead of being forced to do so following a life event that requires such a change.