Marchwood: Anger over proposed care home near Pilgrim Inn

LNT Care Developments has submitted proposals for a two-storey complex between the Pilgrim Inn at Hythe Road, Marchwood, and homes in neighbouring St Contest Way.

But Marchwood Parish Council has lodged an objection, saying the proposed site is too close to the pub.

Plans to build a 66-bed care home next door to the Pilgrim Inn have been submitted (Image: Newsquest.)

Its letter to the district council cites outside music events at the Pilgrim and claims the presence of a care home could result in noise complaints, possibly resulting in the loss of a community asset.

The letter also says the planned parking area is too small and would lead to residential roads being used as an overflow car park.

Several people living in St Contest Way have also objected, warning a care home on the site would create extra traffic problems in the area.

READ MORE: Members of Boyzone and Five to perform at the Pilgrim pub 

The proposed development comprises single-room accommodation with en-suite/wetroom facilities, plus a library, cinema and hairdressing facilities.

The application says: "A total of 25 car parking spaces are proposed, as well as an ambulance/delivery/drop-off area, two accessible spaces, and two EVCPs.

"The access arrangements will connect seamlessly to the existing road network."

A CGI of the care home that LNT Care Developments wants to build at Marchwood (Image: LNT Care Developments)

According to LNT, the scheme will deliver much-needed health and social care benefits, plus what it describes as "important new employment opportunities".

READ MORE: Tributes paid to Ron Longman, former owner of the Pilgrim Inn 

The application describes the site's proposed new use as "entirely appropriate" for the surrounding context.

"The design and density of the development will ensure the building sits comfortably within its surroundings.

"The layout offers an appropriate relationship with neighbouring properties, providing suitable separation and using existing screening to prevent overlooking and overshadowing."

An aerial view of the site between St Contest Way and the Pilgrim Inn (Image: LNT Care Developments)

The application says secure garden areas will provide "excellent" amenity space for the home's occupants.

"We intend to ensure the health and wellbeing of future residents is safeguarded, whilst ensuring the proposals will not adversely impact the health and wellbeing of surrounding residents.

"The proposals will have a positive impact on the area by developing the site for a beneficial use that fulfills a need.

"It will integrate well with its surroundings, without any resultant harm to the character or amenity of the area or nearby residents.

"Overall, the proposals provide a high-quality and well-designed scheme with appropriate access. It will positively enhance the character and quality of the site and surrounding area."

Fuller's, which operates the Pilgrim, has been contacted for comment.