DURING a visit to the West Midlands, CBI president Paul Drechsler visited Sanctuary Group’s flagship care and retirement development in St. John’s, Worcester.

Mr Drechsler toured the £22m care and retirement complex near Meadowbank Drive, which has created a variety of employment opportunities during the construction process and a further 100 jobs since its opening last year. One of the UK’s leading housing and care providers, Sanctuary has built a 60-bed care home, 60 extra care apartments, 24 retirement living units and 14 apartments of supported living accommodation for adults with learning disabilities on the site. The scheme also hosts a community hub, which comprises a restaurant, shop and hair salon for use by both residents and the local community.

Mr Drechsler said: “This state of the art development has brought a much needed care and retirement facility, and vital jobs into the area, which will have a positive impact on the local community and the economy. Sanctuary’s ambitious development plans will not only increase the supply of much needed housing, they will also create and sustain employment and training opportunities.”