PLANS are being put together by developers to replace a set of four homes with a block of 50 flats in Lymington.

Retirement housing firm Renaissance Retirement is formulating proposals for the scheme on Stanford Hill, a short walk from the high street.

The development, which is in the early stages of preparation, would see four existing properties replaced with the combination of one and two bedroom apartments together with communal facilities within a single building.

Simon McFarlane, head of planning at Renaissance Retirement, said: “Sites like this close to shops and services prove ideal for the kind of specialist housing that we’re looking to provide, so we’re pleased to have an opportunity to develop a set of proposals.

“The council has set out its future development needs, which range from starter homes and affordable housing but also importantly, homes specifically designed for older people.

“One of the key benefits of this type of proposal is the release of under occupied properties in the local area further adding to the wide range of housing and social benefits.”

On site parking spaces are also included within the scheme with access proposed off Stanford Hill. The plans for the site are being moved forward at a time when New Forest District Council’s latest planning blueprint – the Local Plan – is in its final consultation stages.

A public consultation event, which saw residents meet the development team and give their initial thoughts, took place at Lymington Centre last month.

Mr McFarlane said: “Having spoken to the council and several immediate neighbours about our draft proposals, we look forward to hearing what the wider community has to say.”

The plans proposed by the Ringwood-based business have been the subject of initial discussions with council planning officers through the pre-application process.

Subject to feedback and progress, a planning application is targeted for submission by early September.

If the green light is given to Renaissance Retirement’s plans, work could start on the development by next summer.