Developer rethinks Dibden flats plan after parking concerns

People living near the proposed site of 36 flats warned that the complex could exacerbate the shortage of parking spaces in the area.

Now McCarthy & Stone has gone back to the drawing board and increased the amount of parking available at the flats.

Plans to bulldoze four properties in Beaulieu Road, Dibden Purlieu, and replace them with one and two-bedroom Retirement Living apartments were unveiled in April.

Shane Paull, McCarthy & Stone’s regional managing director, said the company had now submitted a planning application to New Forest District Council.

Mr Paull said the company invited more than 1,000 people to a public exhibition of the proposals.

He added: “After listening to local people’s feedback we soon realised that the current parking issues in Beaulieu Road is a particular concern, with residents requesting that the proposed development does not exacerbate the issue.

“We’ve taken on board this concern and increased the number of parking spaces from 17 to 27.

Mr Paull said the “bespoke” scheme would enhance the site by using materials and design features that reflected the Victorian and Edwardian properties in the area.

He added: “The planting along the front of the site has become particularly overgrown and unkempt.

“We’re planning to improve the landscaping of the site, which will be maintained by McCarthy & Stone’s own management company if the application is approved.”

The New Forest has already has 44,200 residents aged over 65 and the number is expected to rise to 73,000 by 2035.

Mr Paull added: “Our proposals for Dibden Purlieu will help meet a growing housing need – and this form of housing has benefits for the wider community as well.

“On average each development represents an investment of around £5m in the local economy.

“And residents moving house in later life tend to release family-sized housing, which helps stimulate the housing chain.”