Frequently Asked Questions
1. What age requirements are there for senior cohousing? You must be 55 or over with at least one member of a couple in that age range.
2. What is cohousing? Each household is personal and private but residents come together to manage their community and share activities.
3. What provision is there if I become disabled or develop dementia later in life? The homes are designed to meet lifetime standards which means each flat or house can be easily adapted to meet future needs. The garden is also designed to meet the needs of aging members.
4. Will we have garden space? All homes will have a small personal garden. There will be some communal spaces too.
5. What is a Common House? The Common House is a place where members can share meals, play games, watch films, or relax. We will no doubt be bringing books to fill a small library. It includes shared storage space, laundry room and guest rooms.
6. Will there be car parking space for everyone and visitors? Or will there be a car club with shared vehicles? There are only 3 spaces. They will be needed for car sharing and visitors.
7. Do we share meals? There will be times when shared meals are on offer. It is up to members to decide how often and in what format this takes place. It might be “Let’s meet for coffee and croissants.” or “Anyone for takeaway tonight?” or “Shall we do a Jacob’s Join tonight?”
8. Are pets allowed? Pets will be allowed. Our Pets Policy will set guidelines and restrictions.
9. What if I am not as environmentally aware as other members? We would like to support Lancaster City Council in their goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. There is an understanding that everyone is on a journey to becoming more sustainable. Halton Senior Cohousing has started with constructing to PassivHaus standards and linking in with the sustainable energy of the hydro-project. Our vision and values statement expresses the expectation that all members will consider the environmental impact of their lifestyle choices.
10. Will there be rented homes? We do not intend to have rented homes but from time to time there may be members who rent out their homes. All tenants must become members of Halton Senior Cohousing.
11. What will the homes cost? We have indicative prices based on the feasibility plan. We are currently reviewing these prices based on the latest architects drawings. We will be posting these soon.
