Developers have lodged an appeal against the non-determination of plans to replace a derelict police station with more than 50 retirement homes.
Churchill Living is seeking consent to build flats and cottages for older residents on the former Hampshire Constabulary site at Jones Lane in Hythe.
New Forest District Council has received more than 300 representations, most of which are from people who are opposed to the scheme.
The latest list of planning applications that have either been approved or rejected describes the proposal as “undetermined”.
Churchill Living has lodged an appeal against the non-determination of its plan to replace the former Hythe police station with more than 50 homes (Image: Newsquest)
A council spokesperson said officers sought to negotiate improvements to applications rather than simply refuse them.
“In this case, officers reached out to the applicant to commence such negotiations. However, the applicant has instead opted to exercise their right to appeal against the non-determination of the application.
“The decision will now be made by a planning inspector.”
READ MORE: Anger over application to replace derelict police station with more than 50 flats and cottages
Objectors include Cllr Alex Wade and the local parish council. They claim the scheme would have an overbearing impact on the surrounding neighbourhood, plus a negative affect on the local conservation zone.
They are also concerned about the size and height of the buildings, the absence of affordable housing, and what they describe as “poor” parking provision.
Other worries include the “overdominance” of retirement homes in the area and the impact on local health services.
Churchill Living has lodged an appeal against the non-determination of its plan to replace the former Hythe police station with more than 50 homes (Image: Newsquest)
Cllr Wade’s letter of objection says the proposed development is significantly taller than the houses opposite and would have an adverse impact on the area’s distinctive character.
It adds: “The proposal is looking to add to an already oversaturated market.
“Even in Jones Lane, Homeborough House and Ewart Court are serving this need, while Beaulieu Road, South Street and Southampton Road all feature significant retired person’s accommodation.
“However, there remains a significant number of flats available at existing sites, which contradicts the claims there is a local need for this type of housing.”
Three of the officers based at Hythe police station in 1980 (Image: Newsquest)
Churchill Living wants to provide 30 one-bedroom flats and 15 two-bedroom properties, plus six two-bedroom cottages.
A company spokesperson said: “Our proposals aim to bring a long vacant site back into positive use with high quality accommodation designed specifically for older people in Hythe.
“Providing this type of accommodation helps people live independently for longer, reduces pressures on local health and care services, and give residents real choice about how and where they want to grow older.”