Living in Priory View
Priory View is home to 83 apartments for residents aged 55+, both renting and shared ownership. The ethos of the building is to provide residents with the right balance of privacy and support, to live independently, and as part of a bigger plan to ensure that Central Bedfordshire has suitable housing for older residents, most of whom wish to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.
Priory View is more than just alternative accommodation for older people. It is a place to celebrate life! The facilities are fantastic, and the building was designed to foster a sense of community, enabling residents to make new friends and support each other.
With flexible care services provided by our on-site care provider, Care is Central, residents and their families can be assured that their new homes will offer the right balance of privacy and independence, along with necessary support. Priory View offers a safe and secure home, a community of like-minded people, social activities on your doorstep, and support and care when needed.
Apply for accommodation at Priory View
We have received a lot of interest from people interested in living at Priory View. Due to its popularity, all the apartments are currently allocated. However, if you would like to be considered for a resale or re-let, the information below may be helpful before making your application:
- If you receive a written offer, you will be required to sell any existing home(s).
- Eligibility criteria will be checked before an offer is made.
- You will be subject to a credit check.
- You will need to speak with an independent financial adviser.
- If your application is successful, you will be placed on a waiting list until a vacancy arises.
- You may receive a call from the care team for a home inspection to assess your current care needs.
- While waiting to hear from us, you are welcome to visit Priory View, use the café, or join in with the activities.
Find out how to apply for accommodation at Priory View.
Important information about living here
If you have a question that we haven't answered here, please get in touch:
Telephone: 0300 300 5904
Email: prioryview@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Will there be stamp duty?
Yes. Stamp duty will be payable on the share you buy (at the applicable rate).
Can I sell my apartment to my family if I decide to move out?
No. The property must be sold to someone who meets the eligibility criteria on the council’s waiting list.
If Central Bedfordshire Council buys my apartment back, at what price do they buy it?
It will be purchased at the Current Market Value, as defined in the lease.
Will I have to pay Council Tax?
Yes. You will be responsible for paying the Council Tax.
What is the minimum share that I can buy?
The minimum share you can purchase is 25%.
Why can’t I buy more than 75%?
The scheme is designed to ensure that affordable independent living remains available in Dunstable.
Can I apply for a mortgage to help me buy the property?
Yes, you should be able to apply for a mortgage. For more information, seek advice from an Independent Financial Advisor regarding your mortgage options.
Can my children buy my apartment for me?
No.
Can I still claim housing benefit?
You should check with the Housing Benefit team to see if you are eligible to claim.
What does the service charge cover?
The service charge covers costs associated with maintaining communal areas, including fire alarms, emergency lighting, communal cleaning, gardening, and building insurance.
Will costs be reviewed?
Yes, costs will be reviewed annually, and information will be provided to residents in advance of any changes.
Are meals included in the service charge?
No. There will be a restaurant on site where meals will be available on a pay-as-you-go basis, open to residents and the general public.
How old do I have to be to move into Priory View?
The minimum age is 55.
Will there be disabled access?
Yes, the scheme has been designed with disabled access in mind. All areas should be accessible for those with disabilities.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes, subject to understanding and adhering to the pet policy.
Can my family and friends stay over?
Yes, there will be a guest suite available for a small charge, which can be pre-booked.
Will I have my own parking space?
There will be no allocated parking; the car park will be available for all residents and their visitors.
Will the scheme be wheelchair friendly?
Yes, it will be designed for ease of access.
Do the apartments have a bath?
No, apartments will have showers. However, there will be separate bathrooms with assisted baths on three floors for residents to use.
Do the apartments have a patio or balcony?
Yes, apartments will have access to either a balcony or a patio.
If you have any queries or need help applying, please contact our housing solutions team at 0300 300 5904.
How can I find out more about the care services provided at Priory View?
We work in partnership with Care is Central to provide high-quality, flexible on-site care services to the residents of Priory View. Care is Central is registered and regulated by the Care Quality Commission to ensure national quality standards are continually met. Visit Care is Central or call 01234 385640 to discuss any care requirements or queries.