A proposed retirement home has been redesigned following discussions between the developer and Herefordshire Council.

Plans to build a 53-home retirement complex off The Homend in Ledbury were submitted to the council in September 2022.

Developer McCarthy Stone has since worked with planning officers and has now unveiled a new design for the building.

It says the development now “better utilises the varied topography of the site, which has led to a reduction in the scale and appearance of the building”. 

The original pastiche Tudor design has been replaced with a more contemporary approach. This includes the introduction of dormer windows, red brick and render. 

Bespoke brick balconies and timber-style gable features also form part of the new plan.

A new consultation with stakeholders and residents has been launched.

Katie Fisher, divisional managing director at McCarthy Stone, said: “After extensive work with Herefordshire Council to progress the plans, we are delighted to see our redesigned retirement community go out for re-consultation.

“This development will not only help to address a demand for retirement accommodation in the area but would also see a substantial economic boost to the local high street.

“Our research shows that McCarthy Stone residents typically use local shops and services daily, or often, and would provide a vital boost to businesses in Ledbury town centre, helping to support local retail jobs and keep shops open.”

McCarthy Stone says independent research by WPI Economics shows residents living in the new development, if it goes ahead, would be expected to generate around £408,000 of spending annually in Ledbury.

“This additional spending can help maintain local outlets from the newsagents and the butchers to the bakery, pub, and local cafe - in other words the shops and businesses that make up the heart of the local community,” said Katie.

“As recognised in the Local Plan, there is a real need for specialist retirement accommodation in Ledbury. We look forward to working further with Herefordshire Council to progress the proposals and to address this local need.”

McCarthy Stone’s plans will be determined by Herefordshire Council in the coming months.  Anyone requiring further information is invited to visit the project’s website, https://mccarthystoneconsultation.co.uk/ledbury, or contact the project’s freephone information line on 0800 298 7040 or via email at feedback@mccarthystoneconsultation.co.uk.