PLANS to demolish an extra care facility in Appleton and construct a new building with 45 self-contained apartments have been approved.

Residents living at Broomfields, an independent living complex for over 55s, were told in 2018 by housing giant Torus that if they wanted to continue to receive care beyond 2020, they would have to move to a purpose-built centre in Padgate.

The proposals about the future arrangements sparked serious concerns among residents and councillors.

However, following the backlash and subsequent discussions, Torus offered a further option of a new purpose-built site.

Warrington Borough Council has approved the housing group’s application to demolish the existing extra care building, on Bridge Lane, and replace it with a new extra scheme comprising 45 self-contained apartments for affordable rent for over 55s.

It will feature shared facilities including a lounge, multi-purpose rooms and office.

The scheme has been approved subject to a section 106 agreement.

In the design and access statement put forward by John McCall Architects, it says the project will remove existing buildings which are no longer suitable for modern standards of living to make way for an ‘improved and highly insulated’ scheme with more suitable accommodation.

It added: “We have worked with the local authority officers to design a new development which addresses the issues of the existing buildings and local area needs, we believe that the new scheme successfully addresses the planning officers’ views at pre-planning, giving the site a new potential and improved lease of life.”

But the proposals for the site have sparked some concerns in the area.

An Appleton resident living on Dale Lane, who objected to the application, said: “The height of the structure is a major concern, the close proximity to my bungalow will inevitably lead to overshadowing and being in the shade at certain times of the day.

“The proposed orientation of the car park is directly opposite my property.

“I object to the fact that there will potentially be added noise from parking cars many times during the day and night.”