FAQs
What are you proposing to build?
We are proposing to build a mix of high-quality apartments for local people. The current designs show 46 apartments which are designed with independent living in mind.
Who can live in the newly-developed homes?
The apartment block is likely to be accommodation for older people. Allocations will be made in line with the council’s Allocations Policy, where an applicant’s specific need for this type of accommodation can be taken into consideration.
Will I be able to get a property?
The properties will be allocated to applicants from the council’s Housing Register in line with the Housing Allocations Policy.
What stage is the development at?
A planning application is being prepared and we are hopeful of an imminent planning submission.
How much will this cost and who is paying for it?
The total costs will not be known until a firm design has been approved and a contractor is procured to deliver the work. Current estimate costs are in the region of £10.7 million. This will be paid for by the Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme and anticipated grant funding from Homes England.
When would the work start and be completed?
If planning permission is granted, we will work with Homes England to understand what grant funding is available and hope then to have a clearer understanding on when works could start. We anticipate the construction would then take around two years to complete.
Where will the new residents park?
There is an existing car park area of the highway that will be upgraded as part of the development plans. In addition, a new parking area will be created. In total there will be 32 spaces including four accessible spaces. Parking will not be allocated and will operate on a first come first served basis.
Will the development make the traffic worse?
A Transport Assessment will be completed to inform the development plans and will be submitted to support the planning application.
Will my house be overlooked?
All new homes will comply with statutory overlooking guidelines as directed by the planning department and contained within the National Planning Policy Framework.
Why did you demolish the existing building and replace it with another apartment block?
The former building was a sheltered housing scheme; however, the accommodation type was small and contained communal bathing facilities which are no longer considered suitable. The proposed plans offer new, high quality housing and a choice for older people to live independently in their own home. An apartment block is the most financially viable option for developing on this site.
Will the apartment block have communal facilities and staff on site?
There are no communal facilities within the block and there are no intentions for the block to be staffed. There may be future opportunities for a support service to contact residents who require support but this would not be provided as standard and residents would be charged.