THE official management agreement for the Ryfields Retirement Village was sealed last week when the two main partners signed over their commitment to the project.

St Helens-based Grosvenor Housing Association signed the long term partnership agreement with the ExtraCare Charitable Trust to manage the new village, currently being built at Rylands Recreation Ground.

Grosvenor, who have contracted local firm Cruden Construction to develop the £20 million village, will take charge of housing management and maintenance once it is completed next summer.

Care management, village staffing and community activities will be looked after by the ExtraCare Charitable Trust who specialise in delivering tailor-made support packages to older people living in their own homes.

The long term agreement follows a year of mutual co-operation where both organisations have worked closely to promote the new village.

Through the North West Merseyside Housing Corporation, Grosvenor has secured over £3 million in grant towards the project and is also contributing £13 million from its own resources.

ExtraCare has already pledged more than £600,000 as part of the charity's £1.5 million fundraising appeal to underwrite the development.

Warrington Borough Council has put £700,000 towards the village.

Chief executive of Grosvenor Housing Association Graham Eades said: "You only have to visit one of ExtraCare's existing retirement schemes to feel the fantastic atmosphere among residents.

"We are delighted to be able to recreate something similar at Ryfields Village with the help of all our partners."

John Graham, managing director of the ExtraCare Charitable Trust said: "At ExtraCare our specialism is to 'breathe life' into new retirement communities, providing the management and care support that ensures our residents achieve fulfilling and active lives.

"However, well-appointed and well-maintained facilities are an essential part of successful community life and in this respect we seek expertise.

"In Grosvenor Housing Association, I believe we have an ideal partner who shares our vision and can contribute significant skill and experience in property management."