Retirees could save thousands of pounds a year by giving up the car in later life

Residents at McCarthy and Stone’s Willow Bank Court retirement development in East Boldon are proving there’s no need to worry about giving up your car in later life. Using the Metro Gold Card to get around only costs them £12 a year, saving them a whopping £2,400* and benefitting the environment too.

The card enables those with a Concessionary Travel Pass to use the Metro from 9.30am weekdays, all day at weekends and on public holidays. For trips further afield it’s also valid on Northern Rail services between Newcastle and Sunderland.

To help residents at Willow Bank Court make the best use of these local transport and delivery services, McCarthy and Stone has introduced a ‘Green Transport Plan’. This tailor-made pack contains detailed information about public transport with route maps and journey times, door-to-door services and other mobility schemes in the area.

Fiona Brooks, Regional Sales and Marketing Manager for McCarthy and Stone, said: “The savings on running a car are clearly adding up for purchasers here at Willow Bank Court, as there are now only five retirement apartments remaining for sale.

“Many people fear that giving up their car in later life means they will lose their independence, but this certainly isn’t the case for residents here. The Metro Gold Card is an excellent way to travel around the region, plus our Green Transport Plan lets new residents know about everything on offer in their area, without having to source the details separately.

“The central location of the development is also one of the key attractions to residents, many of whom have hung up their ignition keys permanently, or intend to do so. If you’d like to find out how you can save money, help the environment and enjoy life without a car why not get in touch?”

As well as giving free travel at weekends and after 9.30am on weekdays, the Metro Gold Card also enables holders to travel free of charge before 9.30am if they need to get to a hospital appointment. All they need to do is show their appointment card or letter with their CT Pass and Metro Gold Card when requested.

Willow Bank Court has been designed for active retired people seeking a secure and manageable home in their retirement without losing their independence. Each self-contained apartment is linked to a 24-hour personal emergency service and a closed-circuit TV system so residents can check who is calling at the main entrance.

The development has an elegantly furnished central lounge for social events, a guest suite where friends and family can stay overnight, and a laundry room. General maintenance is overseen by the resident House Manager, who is also a good neighbour to all.
Prices start from £129,950. For further information about Willow Bank, log onto mccarthyandstone.co.uk.

*Cost worked out using the AA’s petrol car running costs guide and is approximate. Cost is based on a new car up to the value of £12,000, travelling 5,000 miles a year and spending 106.3p/litre on unleaded petrol.