Older people’s housing bid launched for former school house site
Plans to transform the former Kings School House site on Sarum Road, Winchester with an older people’s housing scheme are set to be unveiled to the community next Thursday, 12 January, at a public exhibition being held by specialist housebuilder, Renaissance Retirement.
The proposals come forward after the Ringwood-based business secured control of the site following a competitive tender process run by present owners, Hampshire County Council. The early plans propose the site’s redevelopment with 29 two bedroom apartments for older people, which would be contained in a single three storey building with dedicated parking. The public will be able to have sight of the draft proposals between 4.00pm and 7.00pm on the day at the University of Winchester’s Business School on the West Downs Campus, Romsey Road.
With the Kings School House now surplus to requirement, Renaissance Retirement’s plans are proposed at a time when Winchester City Council has identified a need to address the requirements of an ageing population.
Simon McFarlane, associated planning director at Renaissance Retirement, said:
“We’re aware of the housing need in the City and especially, that which exists for accommodation for older people. Given the site’s location, we are also very alive to the need to design a high quality scheme, which is right for Winchester and right for the character of the immediate area.
He added:
“We always value community feedback on our proposals and look forward to discussing our plans with local residents at next week’s public exhibition.”
Following the public exhibition, local feedback will be taken into account, before the plans for the site are finalised and submitted to Winchester City Council. An application could be made by early February. If the green light is given to the plans, work could start on the development in autumn 2017.
For anyone with immediate questions, Renaissance Retirement can be contacted on 01425 474 674 or via email - winchesterfeedback@renaissancegroup.co.uk.
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