DEVELOPERS want to build a new retirement complex at a vacant site in Branksome Park, Poole.

The Tower Road site has been the subject of a number of planning applications and permissions since 2007, but the plot has remained empty and unused.

McCarthy and Stone want to build 28 apartments, with landscaped gardens and secure on-site parking.

Shane Paull, regional managing director of McCarthy and Stone, said: "The Tower Road site already has a planning permission for apartments.

"However, these plans have not come forward and the site has sat empty for a number of years and has become an eyesore for neighbours.

“We believe our Retirement Living scheme would be a great opportunity to improve this site for neighbours."

The developers presented plans to local residents at a public exhibition on Tuesday, October 11.

A McCarthy and Stone spokesman said: "At McCarthy & Stone we are committed to raising the quality and choice of housing for people in later life, ensuring people have access to a wider range of housing options.

"Our proposals feature 28 two bedroom retirement living apartments, attractive landscaped gardens and car parking spaces.

"We are committed to engaging with the local community regarding this proposal and have commenced a pre-application community consultation programme."

According to McCarthy and Stone there is a growing demand for specialist retirement housing, with the number of people aged over 85 in the UK expected to more than double between 2014 and 2033, from 1.5 million to 3.5 million.

The spokesman added: "The number of 65-year-olds are expected to increase by more than 50 per cent, from 11.4 million to 17.2 million.

"According to recent research, one in four over 60s are interested in retirement living."