Forty-seven retirement apartments for sale on the open market look set to be built in Ellesmere on land originally earmarked for a sheltered housing complex, it emerged today.

Developer McCarthy And Stone Retirement Lifestyles Limited wants to build the homes as part of the wider redevelopment of Ellesmere Wharf.

Under the scheme, a single building off Wharf Road would contain 32 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom retirement apartments.

In April it emerged the wider development was being scaled back because of the recession, meaning plans for a sheltered housing block were shelved and replaced by the private housing block.

Developers have applied to Shropshire Council to consider reserved matters on the plans, which already have outline planning permission.

The flats would be specifically designed with the needs of older people in mind and there will be a communal area, guest suite and manager’s office plus 24 parking spaces.

A statement from developers in support of the plans says: “The proposal would see this part vacant site re-generated and redeveloped with a new single building, which would respect neighbouring amenity and positively contribute to the character of Ellesmere Wharf.

“The proposed design would address the specific housing need for older people in the local area.”

The wider wharf development, led by Cheshire-based PB Developments, includes a new Tesco store, 300 homes, a public square, car parking, a pub and restaurant, extended nature reserve and residential care home on the 31-acre former Dairy Crest creamery site.