A developers plan to build new retirement accommodation in Sandhurst has been met with mixed reviews by residents.   

After recently undertaking a public consultation on the proposals, McCarthy Stone has submitted proposals detailing the construction of 39 apartments for retirees on Yorktown Road. 

Divisional Managing Director at McCarthy Stone Southern, Shane Paull, said the plans would “address a demand” for this type of development in the area, whilst at the same time “freeing up the wider housing market” for families and first-time buyers. 

However, many respondents to the consultation disputed this, questioning whether the site, which currently comprises of several commercial units, would be “much better used for affordable housing”. 

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A total of 1,973 residents were invited to participate in the consultation, with just 31 providing feedback. Of those, the majority (54 per cent) objected to the proposals, leaving just 46 per cent in favour. 

Concerns around potential traffic congestion, the potential impact on local amenities and too much existing accommodation for older people were those most frequently raised. 

One respondent to the online feedback form welcomed a development of the site as it’s “a bit of an eye sore […] and attracting rats” but not necessarily to build retirement accommodation. 

“The land would [be] better used to provide low-cost housing suitable for young people and young families,” said another. 

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Mr Paull has suggested that every McCarthy Stone apartment sold creates moves further down the housing chain. 

“This means a 39-unit scheme in Sandhurst, would likely free up 78 homes for local people at differing stages of the housing ladder.” 

Just 18 feedback forms were returned, but with a 61 per cent majority being overall supportive of the plans (11) – leaving 39 per cent opposed. 

One noted that the designs “look amazing” and “look[s] forward to the construction.” 

If given the green light by Bracknell Forest Council, the plan would see a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom units developed at the site. 

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The proposals also include tailored communal facilities including a residents’ lounge and guest suite, surrounded by landscaped gardens, as well as 23 electric vehicle parking spaces. 

Retirement living developments are designed to enable residents to live independently in their own home. Apartments can be occupied by people aged 60 or over and are provided for outright sale, as well as shared ownership and rent, as well as part rent-part buy.    

McCarthy Stone already manages the Birch Place retirement community in nearby Crowthorne, where one-bedroom properties are up for sale from £320,000 or can be rented from £2,855 per calendar month.