PLANS for a scaled down block of retirement apartments in Highcliffe have been unveiled – but the proposals have been met with a series of objections from residents.

Poole-based firm Fayrewood Property Ltd has submitted the scheme for the corner of Lymington Road and Seaton Road to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.

If the application is approved, the five existing properties at 1 and 3 Seaton Road and 424, 426 and 428 Lymington Road would be demolished to make way for a single three-storey block of 38 retirement homes.

The development would also include new access and parking facilities on the site.

In September last year, Fayrewood Property Ltd put forward plans for a 48-unit scheme, however, the applicants withdrew the scheme in December.

The smaller proposals currently under consideration with the council have been met by objections from some Highcliffe residents.

Michael Starks, who lives in Wortley Road, said: "The proposal to build a large overpowering building of a further 38 retirement flats in that area of Highcliffe would be totally out of character with the surrounding area and is not needed.

"There is a large unsightly and completed development nearby of which only 40 per cent of the apartments have been reserved after being on the market for a considerable time according to the on-site and online advertisements.

"Highcliffe does not need to destroy family homes but build more, and make them affordable."

Mr Starks goes on to state the provision of 25 car parking spaces is "woefully inadequate".

Other objectors raised concerns with the plans to add another retirement block on the main route through Highcliffe, with some calling for affordable housing to encourage younger people to the area.