A DEVELOPER says it is to unveil plans for a retirement complex in Petersfield.

McCarthy and Stone hopes to build 64 one and two-bedroom ‘extra care’ retirement apartments on land in Frenchmans Road, once the now virtually demolished Paris House has been cleared from the site.

The developer says the proposed plans will be on display at a public exhibition between 3pm and 7pm next Monday, January 29, in the Festival Hall’s Rose Room.

McCarthy and Stone regional director Shane Paull, said: “We want to hear from the local community before we finalise our planning application, and our project team will be on hand to answer questions and listen to feedback on what we have done so far.

“This scheme would significantly improve the housing choices for older people in Petersfield, while providing a boost for businesses through increased year-round spending in the area.”

Just as McCarthy and Stone announced the public exhibition details, plans for another retirement estate in Petersfield were approved by planners.

At its meeting last Thursday, the South Downs National Park Authority’s (SDNPA) planning committee unanimously backed plans by developer Pascalis (SDV) Limited and Josephis for a new complex off Harrier Way.

The assisted living community for older people consists of 70 apartments and cottages and a community hub for residents.

Harrier Way has the Taro Leisure Centre and district council offices at one end of what is considered a busy road. The East Petersfield Community Group represents residents in the area, has been campaigning on their behalf for measures to reduce speeds along it.

However, planning committee member Heather Baker said she was happy with a traffic report that said the road could cope with the traffic generated by the complex.

She added: “It will be very good for Petersfield.”

Fellow committee member Doug Jones said: “It does appear to fit with the Petersfield Neighbourhood Plan.

“But this land is shown in the plan as a transition area from town to countryside, and landscaping on this scheme will be critical.”