Architecture
How Bowgreave Rise keeps residents HAPPI
Rebecca Stuart-Jack, marketing assistant at architects PRP, discusses the design ethos and construction process behind a new £6m care home project in Lancashire
Situated just south of the Lancaster Canal, within the idyllic rural landscape of Garstang, is Bowgreave Rise care home. This new facility offers a tranquil retreat to residents of surrounding villages, amidst green infrastructure and open countryside. Settled neatly in the grounds of Bowgreave Rise, the 45-bed home officially opened in September 2023, replacing the outdated 1967 structure in a highly sustainable, purpose-built establishment that champions dementia care. Developed by PRP, the £6m project prioritises wellbeing, sustainability, and contemporary design to accommodate residents with varying needs. James Kelly of PRP led the project in collaboration with contractors, Eric Wright Construction. In October 2021, a groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of a 17-month construction period. Seamless teamwork between PRP and Eric Wright Construction, along with dedication to meet evolving needs and expectations of residents, has allowed Bowgreave Rise to continue enriching the lives of residents and the local community. When Lancashire County Council
initiated discussions with PRP in 2020, they expressed concern about the existing care home’s ability to meet modern expectations. Despite a rating of ‘Good’ from the CQC, the existing home was dated, lacking essential amenities such as individual bathrooms and adequate space. Bowgreave’s borough of Wyre bears the highest prevalence of dementia and over-65 population in the UK. County Councillor Graham Gooch emphasised the urgency of upgrading care homes due
May 2024
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com
to the substantial number of residents requiring dementia care. In response to their resident needs, Lancashire County Council have partnered with Eric Wright Group, with support from PRP, to ensure delivery of modern care standards across Lancashire. This collaborative effort between stakeholders, councils, residents, and developers, underscores a commitment to establishing a supportive environment for older adults, ensuring they receive care and accommodation tailored to their evolving needs.
Design evolution The development underwent multiple revisions from initial concept to final realisation. Originally, the design conceived a care home with extra-care apartments in a single building to facilitate shared amenities. However, the project was adapted, allowing the existing care home to stay operational during construction. This two-stage design
The development underwent multiple revisions from initial concept to final realisation
process accommodated the needs of current residents while progressing development. Phase one of the development comprised a modern like-for-like replacement of Bowgreave Rise care home, but this was enhanced from a replacement to a new 45-bed facility, increasing the capacity by almost 50 per cent. The redesign focused on providing individual patient bedrooms with en suites, prioritising privacy and comfort for residents.
The new facility is strategically
positioned on vacant land on the existing site, enabling a seamless transition for residents once the phase one build was completed. The phased approach allowed for continuity of care without disruptions, early closure, or relocation – particularly crucial for dementia patients. Planning for phase two incorporated a
block of extra-care apartments alongside the care home, offering independent living with access to immediate care when needed. This contrasts the traditional care home setup, providing residents with greater autonomy and a sense of home within shared living spaces.
Building and landscape overview The building design exemplifies a new standard of contemporary living
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