Plans for Ludlow retirement bungalows re-submitted despite refusal

The homes, at Elm Lodge, Fishmore Road, Ludlow, are intended as secure housing for those over 55.

The plan was rejected by planners last November because of fears the development may have an impact on great crested newts in a pond just 250 metres from the site.

But the applicants, the Weaver family, have resubmitted them almost unchanged for re-appraisal.

Developers now claim to have conducted the required ecological surveys and say "no negative impact is expected as a result of development" on the newts.

Precise details of the scheme have not yet been drawn up, but Alan Barker of A B Consulting, acting as agent for the Weavers, said 20 "retirement dwellings" in a gated community were planned to take up most of what was a former haulage yard, and the "preference is for bungalows".

"Most will enjoy views over the landscaped land to the south. It is proposed to restrict occupation (through condition or by agreement) to the over 55s.

"Each bungalow will be linked to a local call centre, through an alarm system where 24 hour cover is provided in the case of emergency.

"The existing shop will provide daily consumable goods to the residents of the bungalows.

"The bungalows will enjoy the open views around the site and each will have its own private garden in addition to the communal areas. Each bungalow will be fully Disability Discrimination Act compliant."

In November the application was refused by Shropshire Council planning officers without going before the south planning committee, but is now likely to do so.

As well as the impact on newts, officers also refused it as it is on a site outside the development boundary for Ludlow in open countryside, even though it is a brownfield site.

They said it was not thought to be sustainable and was too close to the Elm Farm livestock building which would have a "detrimental impact on the amenity of residents".

However, the applicants say planners "failed to consider fully the economic, social and environmental merits of the case" as required by national policy, including the work generated by construction and the need for housing for the elderly in the area.

Comments on the plans should be made on Shropshire Council's planning website by April 23.