HIGHCLIFFE residents have been urged to make their feelings known about plans for a new sheltered retirement complex.

A consultation event is due to be held on Thursday June 11 to provide information about a proposed block of 38 apartments on a site currently occupied by four houses.

Developer Churchill Retirement Living has yet to reveal detailed plans but will be assessing public opinion at the event, to be held in the State Dining Room at Highcliffe Castle.

The development would be built at the junction of Stuart Road and Lymington Road and one of the four properties to be demolished would be the Beech Tree bed and breakfast.

Local councillor John Lofts told the Daily Echo: "A lot of people who live in the area know about the plans and I haven't found anybody who is in favour so far.

"I will make my mind up when I've seen detailed plans but I would urge people to go along on Thursday to let Churchill know what they think about it."

The block of one and two-bedroom apartments for private ownership would be built on the site of numbers 2, 4, 6 and 8 Stuart Road.

Churchill planning director, Andrew Burgess, said: "We place great importance on engaging with local communities during the planning process and providing them with an opportunity to have their say on our early-stage plans.

"We believe that our proposals for this site will enhance the local area and provide much-needed specialist housing for older people.

"Not only do our developments offer security, peace of mind and independence for residents, they in turn free up larger, family homes for local people."

The company said its scheme would use "high quality materials" and a tradition design in keeping with the character of the conservation area.

It will include a communal owners' lounge, guest suite and lodge manager's office.

"If the development goes ahead, investment will also be made by Churchill Retirement Living towards local services and facilities such as off-site affordable housing," added Mr Burgess.

The consultation event will take place from 5pm until 7pm.