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DEFYING THE ODDS – TETBURY WOMAN BUCKS NATIONAL TREND

Defying the odds - Tetbury woman bucks national trend

Defying the odds – Tetbury woman bucks national trend.  At 80 years old, Tetbury resident Ann Simpson is defying the odds, moving into a new home and embracing modern living, despite new research by Age UK finding that almost six in ten people aged over 75 say they’ll never move again. 

 

From an old stone cottage to a highly energy-efficient home

Ann has moved from a draughty old stone cottage in Tetbury to a brand-new, zero carbon home at The Limes by Newland Homes on London Road, marking her first ever move into a new-build, highly energy-efficient home. 

 

The fresh start places Ann firmly in the minority.  Last month Age UK’s survey of over 4200 people revealed that 59% of people aged 75 and over say they don’t expect to move again, yet two-thirds of homeowners aged over 65 live in homes rated D to G for energy efficiency; the lowest possible score. 

 

Ann’s former cottage, just a quarter of a mile away from The Limes, had gas central heating, an Aga and a woodburner and was “absolutely freezing cold” she laughs. “Older houses are harder to look after.  As I was getting older, I wanted to reduce the endless upkeep and monthly costs.  I wanted something that didn’t cost me so much money to run.” Her search brought her to The Limes. 

 

“I knew nothing about air-source heat pumps or solar panels, but thought, why not give it a whirl?”

Her new home by Newland Homes scores an A rating for both energy efficiency and environmental impact.  It is heated via an air source heat pump, has extensive insulation and is fitted with solar panels. “I knew nothing about air-source heat pumps or solar panels, but thought, why not give it a whirl?” says Ann.  

 

Age UK found that 72% of the over-65s believed moving after 75 would be too difficult.  In part due to a shortage of housing suitable for an ageing population and the challenges involved in making such a move in later life. “Moving at 80 has been a learning curve” reflects Ann, “but I feel like I’ve done it just in the nick of time.  I’ve no intention of moving again.” 

 

“Ann’s experience proves age shouldn’t be a barrier to finding the right home”

Marcus Evans, Sales & Marketing Director for Newland Homes, comments: “New build homes can tick so many boxes for older movers, like adaptability and step free access plus peace of mind.  Modern, energy efficient homes, which are easy to manage in a good location close to key amenities, can completely transform how people live, giving independence without compromise.  Ann’s experience proves that age shouldn’t be a barrier to finding the right home.” 

 

“The Newland Homes team have all been brilliant.  They couldn’t have been kinder, and they also have a sense of humour.  I’ve felt extremely well supported embarking on this new chapter” concludes Ann. 

 

Designed with sustainable living and community in mind

The Limes is a collection of zero carbon homes designed with sustainable living and community in mind.  45 two, three and four bedroom homes are being built, combining traditional craftsmanship and Cotswold stone with the latest energy efficiency technology, just a short walk from the heart of the historic town.  The homes’ reliance on renewable energy for heat and power rather than fossil fuels is proving popular with buyers. 

 

Prices at The Limes start from £295,000 for a two bedroom detached home, with options such as MoveMaker and Part Exchange to help get people moving.   Tailor-made appointments are available daily, call 01666 719069 to book.  For further information and to view homes online please click here or follow Newland Homes on socials @newlandhomes  

 

Source: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/siteassets/documents/reports-and-publications/reports-and-briefings/safe-at-home/late-movers-how-the-shortage-of-suitable-housing-affects-our-ageing-population-october-2025..pdf  

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