From bungalow to nursing home

Two architectural designs have been submitted for the most recent application for the site on Middlehill Road opposite the junction of Pilford Heath Road.

Applicant Matthews Builders and Developers, through their agent Planning Solutions of Ringwood, have offered one option with a traditional look with a pitched roof and option two has a flat roof.

Different materials for the building have also been offered.

The supporting paperwork states the scale of the building is significantly reduced from previous refused proposals for flats, one of which was inspired by a seagull in flight.

Middlehill Road is “more than adequate” to cope with the small increase in traffic this plan would generate, according to the submitted design, access and planning statement.

It also states: “It is essential that this proposal contains 60 bedrooms because this is the number of units required by national nursing home operators in order to make developing a new nursing home economically viable.”

Of the four floors, three are above ground with the basement being used for servicing and staff facilities.

But because of the topography, from street level it would look like a one and a half storey building.

The rooms with en suite bathrooms have been designed on each side of a wide central corridor, with a centrally located lounge and communal area for each floor, and a centrally located lift and stairwell, but no overlooking to neighbouring properties.

Planning agent Matthew Annen said: “I think there is a definite need.

“Additional to the need you have the employment opportunity it’s going to bring which has to be considered as well.

“We are in an ageing population and people need good quality nursing homes such as this with pleasant outlooks.”

An East Dorset District Council spokesman said their planning department had received the application.

It will be determined on September 2.