A FORMER hospice could be redeveloped into retirement homes, councillors will hear at a planning meeting.

The Thames Hospice Care Pine Lodge, Hatch Lane, Windsor, could be demolished for a retirement facility of 45 flats intended for those aged 55 and above.

This compromises of four two-storey detached houses, two 2.5-storey apartment blocks, and one three-storey apartment block with 44 car parking spaces, refuse store, and cycle storage.

In the report, it states 14 of the units will be affordable housing.

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Originally, it was planned to have 50 flats with 66 car parking spaces – but was later amended reducing this number due to objections made.

Fourteen occupiers were consulted on the plans and 13 letters of objection from residents were received saying the location is ‘unsuitable’ for the elderly as there’s no shops or services within walkable distance, the design is out character with the locality, and the construction noises will cause ‘disturbance’ to neighbours.

The Windsor and Eton Society – which represents the interests of Windsor and Eton residents, especially in planning applications – have also objected to the plans saying the layout is ‘poor’ with increased vehicles and overspill of parking, loss of biodiversity and harm to trees, and the site is prone to flooding.

Slough Observer:

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They later state: “Following re-consultation on the amended plans, while there are some improved aspects of the scheme, objections still stand.”

Officers have recommended for the amended application to be approved by councillors of the Royal Borough Development Management Panel who will convene on August 19 (Wednesday).

The report states: “The loss of the community facility is acceptable as it is considered that there is an acceptable alternative provision made elsewhere and the redevelopment of the site to provide older persons’ housing to meet an identified local need is supported in principle.”

Other applications to be heard at the meeting includes the redevelopment of the car park at Maiden House to provide 14 flats in Maidenhead, and the retention of four stables, construction of three new stables and a barn following demolition of an existing building in Cookham.