RESIDENTS of Regency Park Retirement Village have been reassured it remains in safe hands, following the acquisition of the facility by Churches of Christ Care.

A meet and greet was held yesterday at the retirement village, which was well attended with over 110 guests, including residents, council members and staff.

After 12 months of collaboration with developer and former owner Marcus Barlow and business partner Ed Barber, settlement finally took place in late October.

"Marcus and Churches of Christ Care had to feel comfortable, to make sure it was a key fit," COCC Director of Seniors and Supported Living Bryan Mason explained.

"Marcus has done a fantastic job in terms of quality design and lifestyle." Mr Mason said.

The change of ownership was warmly received by residents and staff alike although Mr Barlow admitted it was not an easy decision to make.

"It would have been lovely to complete it but it will be done better - they have the resources and experience and will bring it to completion sooner." Mr Barlow said.

"The overriding reason was, when we were approached by Church of Christ Care, we looked at what they did and everything we saw we were impressed with," Mr Barlow said.

"We felt comfortable with them taking it forward and that the vision would become a reality."

"We felt it was the best thing for the residents, the village and us personally."

With the intention of continuing with original long-term vision for the village, the purchase included the vacant land and licences for residential aged care.

"Churches of Christ Care is very community-focused, very grass roots based," Mr Mason said, explaining that consultation with the community and other aged care providers would be a factor in any future plans for a nursing home facility.

"We are working towards feasibility studies (for a nursing home)," Mr Mason said. "We certainly intend to continue expanding with the development of eight additional units to start early in the new year.

"We want to ensure that people live life and live it to the full."

THE village

 Resort-style pool and spa

 Community centre

 91 units, five vacancies

 Landscaped grounds and themed gardens

 On-site caravan and boat storage

 Mini-bus available

 Regular activities

 24-hour emergency response system

 Residents' workshop