A HAMPSHIRE council is studying proposals to transform a derelict piece of land by building almost 40 flats for older residents.

Thorngate Churcher Trust and the Amiri Group have submitted an application to redevelop an area of privately-owned scrubland in a residential part of Gosport.

The proposed development comprises a two and three-storey block containing 39 age-restricted assisted living apartments for people aged over 50.

A design and access statement that forms part of the application says: "The site presents an opportunity to deliver affordable accommodation which enables older people to live independent lives with on-site support.

"People aged 50+ who no longer wish to live with the responsibility of a house will have an opportunity to live stress-free."

The statement says the proposed site is an unused piece of land at the junction of Grove Road and Sealark Road.

It adds: "Following advice from planning officers, Boon Brown reviewed the proposed design and updated the drawings to meet all the recommendations.

"A well-landscaped communal outdoor space has been incorporated to encourage open-air activities and a healthy lifestyle.

"A sheltered electric buggy store has been accommodated within the layout and can be accessed off Grove Road."

But Gosport councillor Diane Furlong has lodged an objection to the potential loss of an oak tree that is supposed to be protected by a preservation order.

She said: "This is a magnificent tree which is loved locally. It also represents a landmark as it was directly south of where Green Lane used to be before it was moved southwards and became Sealark Road. I would be devastated if it were removed, as would many of the neighbours."

The scheme is outlined in a Public Notice that has been published by Gosport Borough Council, which will decide the application.

Other Public Notices:

Southampton City Council is closing a ten-metre section of St Lawrence Road, beside its junction with Canute Road, from October 18 (8pm-6am) for manhole repairs. The works are due to be completed by October 20.

Southampton City Council is closing the eastbound lane of Wrights Hill between its junctions with Portsmouth Road and Weston Lane from October 25 to facilitate a water connection. The works are due to be completed by October 30.

Southampton City Council is closing Marston Road between its junctions with Spalding Road and Napier Road from October 20 (8am-4pm) for kerbing works. The works are due to be completed by October 21.

DHL Supply Chain Ltd, of Lumsdale Road, Cobra Court, Stretford, is applying for permission to keep 15 goods vehicles and four trailers at Argos, Unit 4, Reliant Close, Chandler's Ford Ind Estate.

First Cone Highways Ltd, of Unit 1 Second Avenue, Southampton, is applying for permission to keep an extra five goods vehicles at the operating centre at K&D Commercials Ltd, 64 Eling Wharf, Totton.

Suttons Tankers Ltd, of Gorsey Lane, Widnes, is applying to change an existing licence to keep an extra goods vehicle and trailer at the operating centre at MC Truck and Bus Ltd, Test Lane, Nursling.