Sector: Care home

Redevelopment of a brownfield site to provide a 72-bed ensuite care home offering residential and specialist dementia care facilities. 

Riverside Lodge Care Home, Rickmansworth

NL, Three Rivers District Council - Status: Planning application approved

Our role: Chess Engage has a long-standing relationship with NL marked by a track record of effectively leading numerous consultations and engagement initiatives across various residential and care home planning proposals. With our expertise and experience, we were trusted to orchestrate a programme of consultation and engagement to ensure a well-rounded and inclusive approach to the proposed project.

Our approach: Upon identifying sensitivities surrounding the proposed site's proximity to the Parish Church of St. Mary and the river Colne, Chess Engage took proactive steps to address these concerns and ensure a balanced approach to the development.

In response, we developed tailored outreach with residents, community groups, heritage organisations, and key stakeholders. We also created a forum for key stakeholders to contribute to the design and specification of the scheme, fostering a collaborative and inclusive process.

Throughout the process the emphasis was on illustrating how the proposed care home would bring value to the area by improving and enhancing a dilapidated site, as well as effectively addressing a growing community need for older people's accommodation.

Results:

• The planning application received no objections and was approved. Construction of the care home was completed in 2023.
• Contemporary new facilities for elderly residents, strategically alleviating pressure on local GPs and hospitals as well as freeing up family homes.
• The scheme's notable contribution to the job market is reflected in the creation of 175 direct and indirect positions.