Objections to expansion of retirement village

The retirement village site in Walton, Wakefield, will include more than 150 apartments if the expansion is approved

More than 150 people have objected to the proposed expansion of a retirement living community, claiming it was "out of character" for their village.

Wakefield Council's planning committee is due to make a decision on the scheme for further apartments for people over the age of 55 in Walton on Thursday.

The site already had more than 100 similar flats in a development with a gym and a lounge.

If approved, the number of apartments would be a total of 151, but several local residents said the extension would bring an increase in traffic.

Hanover Developments has applied to build the properties in two blocks at the site off Nevile Drive.

The council received 156 objections in total, including comments relating to the loss of a wildflower meadow and the new buildings being "alien" to Walton's character.

No comments in support were submitted, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A planning statement submitted on behalf of the developer said: “The development will deliver specialised housing for people aged 55 and over on a sustainable site and which would form part of the adjoining continuing care development.”

Planning officers have recommended the approval of the scheme ahead of the meeting.

Their report said the development could be “sufficiently accommodated” without impacting on road safety or people living nearby.

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