PLANS for 48 sheltered apartments in Highcliffe have been handed to planners - for the same site as a scheme already recommended for refusal.

Churchill Retirement Living have submitted the new plans for 2-10 Stuart Road, which include 10 more apartments that their previous scheme - due to an extra property earmarked for demolition.

In total five properties would be demolished to make way for the development.

The proposal for 38 apartments has been recommended for refusal by planning officers at Christchurch.

A council spokesperson said the first scheme was unlikely to go to planning committee as the recommendation was in line with objections.

Andrew Burgess, planning director at Churchill Retirement Living, said: "The second application is to include an additional house on Stuart Road, which is why the number of units has increased. The application is not sufficiently different that we will be consulting on it.”

Concerns have already been raised by residents, who have written to the council objecting to the original scheme.

Issues include the building being too big and out of character with the area.

There were also concerns about the addition of more retirement properties when the area is in need of family homes.

Comments were also made about local facilities, especially medical, being stretched, with concerns about the impact of traffic flow and parking raised as well.

A planning statement from Churchill said: "The proposed development is an excellent opportunity to provide for the redevelopment of a vacant site within Highcliffe making better use of a brownfield site in a highly sustainable location.

"The proposal would provide much needed sheltered accommodation for the elderly in an attractive and safe environment and provide accommodation within a defined urban area further adding to the vitality and vibrancy of the area."

It adds: "The use of the site for a sheltered housing development is wholly appropriate at this location and the design of the proposal will make a positive contribution to the street scene that will respect and enhance

the character of the area."