A FORMER taxi driver is enjoying a new lease of life after moving into Birch Lea Park in Hattersley in the summer.
The Housing with Care development, delivered by Tameside Council and Onward Homes, opened earlier this year.
It offers residents aged 55 and over the chance to live independently, while having care and support on hand if they ever need it.
For Mike, who previously lived in Denton, the move has been transformative. Settled into his own apartment, he’s quickly embraced the social side of life at Birch Lea Park – from coffee mornings in the café bistro, to games of pool and the occasional fish and chip dinner.
After years behind the wheel chatting with passengers, Mike says the sense of connection has been one of the biggest positives.
“It’s excellent to live here and the view I have is brilliant,” he said. “The design is wonderful. The people who have planned it have done a lovely job. I’m peaceful, calm, and enjoying life. I’m meeting new people all the time.”
Birch Lea Park is home to 91 modern apartments, designed to give residents privacy alongside shared spaces and activities. On-site care can be arranged easily if needs change, offering reassurance without compromising independence.
That balance matters to Mike, who values his freedom but takes comfort in knowing support is available around the clock through Creative Support. He also praises the wider support network, including his social worker Molly from Tameside Adult Services, for listening and understanding what he wants from life.
One of his favourite spots is his balcony, where he spends time watching planes fly overhead and descend into Manchester Airport. He also makes good use of the gardens, salon and storage for his electric scooter.
“You lock your own front door – what more can you ask for? I’m sound as anything at night,” he said. “I’m just happy with the way things are.”
The development marks a key step in the long-term regeneration of Hattersley and Mottram, transforming a former derelict site into a thriving community.
Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Councillor John Taylor, said: “It’s heartwarming to see what a positive impact living at Birch Lea Park has had on Mike and so many other residents’ lives, providing peace of mind for both them and their families.
“The modern design and wide range of facilities allow people to feel inspired and truly live well at home.”
Onward’s Executive Director of Growth, Sandy Livingstone, added: “Birch Lea Park is already making a real and lasting difference to people’s lives. Seeing customers like Mike thrive with a renewed sense of community is exactly why Housing with Care is so important.”
More information about Birch Lea Park and how to register interest is available at www.tameside.gov.uk/supportathome