McCarthy and Stone is searching for land in Petersfield of between 0.5 to five acres for retirement homes – and says it has around £5m ready to buy a suitable site.

The company wants to build a new ‘multi-tenure’ retirement community here, ideally with level access and in a prominent location close to the high street or to local amenities.

This is in direct support of the government’s drive to revive town centres following the impact of Covid-19, and it could therefore result in a lifeline for retailers and other local businesses.

The company is predicting a strong increase in the demand for retirement living in Petersfield and is seeking suitable sites for the development of a new multi-tenure retirement community in the town.

The company says other significant potential benefits for the town include less pressure on local hospitals and care services.

It also says there would be advantages for prospective home buyers in Petersfield, with more family-sized homes released to the market as older people downsize.

Company chief executive officer John Tonkiss said: “The prime minister is spot on in recognising housebuilding will be central to the UK’s recovery effort, and more and better housing for older people is a critical part of the mix.

“We have identified Petersfield as a key location, and we need new land in the town to satisfy this growing demand.

“I would urge landowners or those who are in a position to make a new site introduction to come forward at their earliest convenience and have a discussion with our land buying team.

“Generous commissions are available for the right site.”

New site introductions can be submitted directly via email to landwanted

@mccarthyandstone.co.uk