Iconic chocolate factory renovated into one of UK's most luxurious care villages

A luxury care village, housed in the former headquarters of the world-renowned Terry’s Chocolate Factory in York, has officially been opened by the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu.

The Chocolate Works, owned by Springfield Healthcare, is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK to feature a bustling interactive marketplace. The design is based on a ‘tried-and-tested’ model from Holland – ‘bringing the outside in’ – and is expected to pave the way for the next generation of residential care.

Commenting on the £10m restoration project, Graeme Lee, Springfield Group’s chief executive officer, said: “Springfield had a real vision and passion for this building and we are delighted that York planners have enabled us to bring it back to life.

“Older people have been a key and central focus to the regeneration of this whole site and they will be able to play a very active role in the new community environment created as a result.

“To be able to welcome the Archbishop of York here to this iconic York building and to share our vision for the future of elderly care in our communities has been inspiring and humbling.”

The care village, in Bishopthorpe Road, will become the new home for over 100 residents and features 82 individually designed care suites and eight apartments.

A two-storey market square with a glass roof mezzanine level has formed the centrepiece and social hub of the building. With trees, walkways, street lamps, shop fronts, outdoor-style cafes and restaurants, the space is also open to the public at certain times.

The interactive setting has been designed to be much closer to ‘normal’ life with 'peace gardens', a spa and gym, a rooftop terrace and reminiscent corridors giving residents a greater sense of well-being and independence.

The care village will provide around 120 new jobs in York with Springfield also planning to create specific apprenticeships for young people.

The village was unveiled by the Archbishop after a blessing of the building. Mr Sentamu said: “The health of any society is measured by how we care for our most vulnerable people.

"What I have seen here demonstrates that our society has the potential for the well-being and flourishing of all older people.

"This care home is a beacon of hope for all those who are getting older and a reassurance for their families.”

The Chocolate Works care village provides residential, nursing, dementia, respite, intermediate and rehabilitation care as well as day care.

It is part of the Springfield Healthcare group, which also has a homecare division employing over 750 people across Yorkshire, Humberside and the North East.

click here for more details or to contact Chocolate Works