PLANS to build 39 new homes, on the site previously occupied by part of Alcester hospital, have been submitted to Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

The project, on Fields Park Drive, would see retirement house-building company McCarthy & Stone redevelop the site with 34 retirement living apartment and five cottages.

Mark Cargill, Stratford District and Alcester Town Councillor, said he supports the plans for high quality retirement homes in the area but is concerned about road safety and that Fair Water Crescent, the main access point to the site is too small to cope with the development and any congestion caused.

He added: “The only other access to the proposed site is via Throckmorton Road onto Fields Park Drive. This is of course residential with tight turns and also unsuitable for large vehicles. Our contention is that the access off Kinwarton Road onto Fairwater Crescent be changed.”

Sue Adams, Stratford-on-Avon District councillor and Alcester town councillor, said: “I am concerned about access to the site.

“The possible problems with road safety and we also have problems with surface water and sewerage and are waiting for a report from Severn Trent before we act.

“Plans have been submitted and we have to comment by January 16. We have concerns and we hope these can be addressed.

Both councillors expressed concerns regarding the impact the new properties would have on the nearby Oversley House, a grade two listed building which has been converted into retirement properties.

Prior to the submission of the planning application, the house-building company consulted the local community by holding a public exhibition in January 2014.

At the meeting, 60 per cent of feedback received expressed support for the redevelopment of the site with homes for older people and welcomed the retention of the mature trees.

Darren Humphreys, regional managing director at McCarthy & Stone, said: “McCarthy & Stone understand that there is some local concern regarding the capacity of the local infrastructure, including drainage.

“However, the proposal site is previously developed land and formerly contained part of the hospital.

“The local utility providers will be consulted about the planning application and will make recommendations regarding this aspect of the plans to ensure that there is sufficient capacity.”

“McCarthy & Stone’s Retirement Living schemes have low car ownership and residents do not generally travel at peak times when congestion may occur.

“Therefore the development should not have a significant impact on local highway safety. An independent highways report, which accesses the traffic generation and access point has been provided as part of the planning application and clarifies this position."

Mr Humphreys added that he was encouraged by the positive local feedback he received in January's meeting and that he thought the proposal would improve the appearance of the vacant site and help meet the growing need for retirement housing.

He also said that if the housing choice for older residents was increased then this would also help put family-sized homes back on the market.

For more information visit mccarthyandstone-consultation.co.uk/alcester or contact the project's free information line on 0800 298 7040.

.