Controversial plans to build more than 20 sheltered apartments in Shrewsbury could get the go-ahead despite a wave of local objections.

Shrewsbury Drapers Holy Cross Ltd wants to build the 21 affordable apartments at the back of Almshouses in Abbey Foregate. Plans were approved for 20 to be built at the third attempt in 2008 after two proposals were withdrawn and a planning appeal saw the third application approved.

Fresh plans were submitted and approved featuring modifications to the proposals and now plans have been lodged to increase the number on the site by one.

But nearly 30 people have objected to the plans, raising a number of concerns. The plans are being recommended for approval.

The latest application includes a communal lounge, an office, a library and hobbies room, an office and first floor conservatory, together with associated works, car parking, landscaping and the relocation of the existing bowling green.

The 21 proposed apartments include a warden’s flat and would be two-storeys tall.

A report to Shropshire Council’s central planning committee, which will consider the proposals on Thursday, says the fresh application is needed to meet the more recent affordable housing standards, which has led to a redesign of the approved permissions.

The scheme is an affordable, rented, sheltered residential development mix of one and two bedroom apartments for elderly people.

The previous application required a legal agreement to secure emergency access and provide £40,000 for flood defences and their maintenance. Planning officers say it is proposed this would be a requirement of the new application, if approved.

The report to councillors says 27 objections have been lodged about a variety of issues, including there being a narrow access road without pavements – raising concerns about a danger from traffic – that there is lack of parking, that the location is poor, and that sewers and drains are inadequate.

In their conclusions officers say: “The proposal is very similar to the two previous approvals, is acceptable in all respects and does not raise any new issues and it is therefore recommended for approval.”