Plans for retirement community complex divide residents

Plans to create a new 'communal' retirement complex in Mossley which would see the demolition of a 'dilapidated' warehouse are dividing residents.

A developer has applied to Tameside council to create a block of 31 one-bedroom apartments for the over 55s on land off Nield Street and Smith Street.

Since being validated on February 4, there have been 21 comments on the proposals, with 17 objections, one ‘neutral comment’ and three people writing in support.

According to the application documents, the land is currently an in-filled reservoir which is now derelict scrubland, partly occupied by a dilapidated warehouse.

The landowner, Clements Court Properties Ltd, is partnering with registered housing provider Jigsaw Homes on the development proposals.

The planning documents state that the creation of the proposed community would ‘regenerate a disused piece of land’, and the location is ‘extremely desirable and sustainable’.

The number of people aged 65 or over in Tameside is expected to increase from 39,600 in 2017 to 58,600 in 2039, a 48pc increase, according to the design and access statement.

“There is a clear need in Mossley and the wider borough to develop different forms of open-market housing for older people,” the report adds.

“The application site provides a communal style, quiet development which is set back from the main road, providing a sense of place for residents whilst taking advantage of its ideal location.

“Developing this pocket of space allows for the completion of development in this area and will bring a well considered and fitting development to the area, providing a future place for existing residents. 

“The development offers a contemporary construction that is sympathetic to the style of Mossley and softly sits within the immediate surroundings which are very mixed. 

“The 31 apartments is considered to be proven to be a good amount for a retirement facility, creating a great friendly community and nice place to live for future occupants.

“The proximity to the town centre makes the use of these apartments for elderly occupants ideal and will be beneficial to the area and the town of Mossley itself.”

The one-bedroom apartments would be served by visitors parking and have access to ‘high quality’ communal gardens, which would be provided by Jigsaw Homes.

Under the plans, most of the flats would have Juliet balconies or ground floor patio doors facing onto the gardens.

Access to the site would see the extension of both Nield Street and Smith Street and the adjoining access road within the site boundary.

A previous application for the site had also been submitted by Clements Court Properties which sought approval for nine, three bedroom homes, but this was formally withdrawn in July 2018.

The plans are being consulted on until early March, and an initial date for determination of the application by the planning department has been set at May 6.

Images:

Plans for a retirement community complex in Mossley. Credit: Clement Court Properties Ltd/Millson Group. 

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