DEVELOPERS have unveiled a £3m scheme that aims to transform a landmark site in a Hampshire town.

Churchill Retirement Living is drawing up plans to build 25 privately-owned one and two-bedroom flats on the site of the former town hall in Christchurch Road, Ringwood.

Earlier this year another developer was given planning permission for 12 apartments and three houses on the land.

But Churchill, which has since bought the site, says it has devised an “improved” scheme that doubles the number of flats and also includes a manager's office, guest suite and residents' car park.

People living in the area are being invited to view the proposals at a public exhibition being held in the town on Wednesday.

Andrew Burgess, planning director at Churchill Retirement Living, said: “As a local company based in Ringwood we're really excited to be bringing retirement living to our home town.

“Because of our location we understand the area well and are keen to give members of the local community the opportunity to speak to our planning team and give their feedback.

“The comments we receive from people at the exhibition will be considered before we submit our application.”

Mr Burgess said specialist retirement schemes were a neighbourly form of development.

He added: “Not only do they offer security, peace of mind and independence, they free up larger, family homes for local people.

“This scheme would be built using high quality materials to a traditional design ensure it's in keeping with the character of the area and would offer benefits to local people compared to the existing use of the site.”

The land is currently occupied by former public offices that closed following the opening of the new £2m Ringwood Gateway complex.

Previous plans to build 15 homes on the site were submitted by Current Asset Ltd and approved by the district council in January.

• The exhibition will be held at Greyfriars Hall in Christchurch Road, Ringwood, today between 3.30pm and 7pm.