Suffolk's newest retirement community has officially opened offering spacious communal spaces and maintained landscaped areas.

Squadron House in Martlesham Heath, on the outskirts of Ipswich, was opened by vice chairman of East Suffolk Council, John Fisher this week.

The McCarthy Stone development is located in Eagle Way and caters exclusively for over 60-year-olds with a range of bedrooms available.

Alongside the one and two-bedroom apartments, there is also a host of communal spaces where people can socialise, including a spacious lounge and well-maintained landscaped patio area.

Councillor John Fisher said: "I was delighted to be asked to perform the official opening ceremony at Squadron House. 

Cllr John Fisher, Vice Chairman of East Suffolk Council officially opening Squadron House with staff and homeowners of the developmentCllr John Fisher, Vice Chairman of East Suffolk Council officially opening Squadron House with staff and homeowners of the development (Image: McCarthy Stone)

"It really is a stunning development that offers a retirement living environment with independence and community at its heart.

"I know from my discussions on the day when I visited that there is much interest and I welcome the addition of the McCarthy Stone development to the local community."

David Meachem, divisional sales director at McCarthy Stone, said: "We enjoyed a fantastic day as we proudly opened Squadron House. 

"All the guests had a wonderful time exploring the development and asked lots of questions about the apartments, our services and other amenities available on site. 

"It is great to see high interest levels in retirement living as demand for such inclusive and vibrant communities continues to grow."

A house manager will be on-site during office hours to oversee the day-to-day running of the development and security features, including door camera entry and a 24-hour emergency call point, are fitted as standard in each property.

One bedroom apartments are available from £120,000.