26th April 2010…Issues affecting our older population were put firmly on the pre-election agenda this week at a special event hosted by McCarthy & Stone. The market leaders in retirement living invited representatives from each of the main political parti

26th April 2010...Issues affecting our older population were put firmly on the pre-election agenda this week at a special event hosted by McCarthy & Stone. The market leaders in retirement living invited representatives from each of the main political parties to meet with existing and prospective residents and address the issues important to them in a lively 'Question Time' style debate.

The events come on the back of recent research by Age UK which revealed that people aged 55 and over will be more influential in the 2010 general election that ever before, casting four out of every 10 votes and making up the majority in many marginal seats.

Over 30 voters aged 60 and above attended the event at Pinetree Court in Stevenage to put their questions to Sharon Taylor, Labour candidate and leader of Stevenage Borough Council and Councillor Michael Downing. Topics raised included the provision of care, the shortage of housing in Stevenage and the recovery of the economy.

The redevelopment of the town centre and the safety of the community were key concerns for residents who called for a zebra crossing to be installed. Sharon told residents that a locality budget is available for road traffic calming measures and she would look into the costs. Residents also asked for the ban on cycling in the centre to be enforced, to which Sharon replied that a complete bylaw will be introduced, enabling police to ensure cyclists obey restrictions.

Keith Johnson, regional managing director for McCarthy & Stone who chaired the event, said: "It is really important that, as election day draws closer, the voice of the more mature voter is heard. We understand the specific issues that matter to our older generation and felt that it was really important to provide a platform on which these could be addressed.

"The response to the event was really positive and we very much appreciate Sharon and Michael taking time out of their busy schedules to take part. We had a lively discussion which everyone found informative and enjoyable."

Pinetree Court is a development of 45 one and two bedroom apartments with prices starting at �159,950. Located in the heart of Stevenage town centre and the pedestrian shopping centre, Stevenage offers a good range of shops and services to meet the needs of residents. There is also a bus station for travel in and around Stevenage, while the train station is just half a mile for services further afield, including to London.

For further information please visit the sales office which is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10.30am until 5pm or contact 01438 721 391. Alternatively log on to www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk.