Northern Ireland-headquartered Farrans' £45m Widmore Park retirement community project in Reading, England, has received full marks in a Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) audit.

The first phase of works, for the project for Inspired Villages, located in Sonning Common, includes 73 high-quality, bespoke homes for over 65s and a state-of-the-art wellness suite within the village centre.

As works remain ongoing, the CCS report recorded: "The site continues to demonstrate that they are conscientious and proactive towards any potential community impact. There is a social value strategy in place and systems to calculate social value contributions made by the project. The site are working with local educational establishments and supporting local charities and organisations. Social value is exceptionally well managed on this site.


"The site manages the safety, environmental and workplace risks efficiently and effectively. The company has established health, safety and environmental management systems. There is a comprehensive carbon management strategy which is also being implemented into the company's supply chain."

The Widmore Park scheme, once delivered in full, will provide 133 age-appropriate, sustainable homes for around 150 over 65s, as well as impressive facilities including a restaurant, cafe, hairdressers, library and craft rooms and a wellness centre comprising a swimming pool, steam room, treatment rooms and a gym with a fitness studio. Some of these features such as the gym, pool, restaurant and café will be open to the wider community.