TWO neighbouring homes in “spacious plots” near Swan Barn Farm, in Haslemere, could be demolished to make way for a new development of 23 luxury retirement flats for the over 60s.

A new sheltered housing unit rising from two to three-and-a-half storeys is proposed by Renaissance Retirement at Nos. 38 and 40 Petworth Road, on a two-acre site.

An underground car park with 23 spaces and two lifts will be provided for residents with four ground-level spaces for visitors.

Echoing the design of the current two houses, the development would look like two Arts and Crafts-style buildings joined by a glazed link from the road.

Responding to concerns by Waverley planning officers the “significant built form” of the rear development originally proposed, was out of keeping with neighbouring homes, it has since been scaled back.

Recommending the plan be granted, the supporting planning statement concludes: “There is a demand for housing for the elderly and allowing the application will help meet this demand and contribute to the council meeting their housing policy objective.

“The use of the site for a sheltered housing development is wholly appropriate at this location, and the design of the proposal will make a positive contribution to the street scene that will respect and enhance the character of the area.”

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Haslemere Town Council has raised no objection – subject to the number of visitor parking spaces being increased to six – andthe installation of a pedestrian crossing to enable elderly residents sae access to the nearest public footpath into town.