A CONTROVERSIAL scheme to build new sheltered housing in Hampshire has been given the go-ahead.

Work on the complex in Romsey is due to start as early as September, developers have revealed.

But the proposals have been ciriticised by town mayor Ian Richards, who called for more homes for younger people.

He urged planners to turn against Churchill Retirement Living’s proposals because he is also worried about the lack of parking spaces that will be provided.

Despite his concerns, Test Valley councillors approved the 29-home sheltered scheme for the elderly in Winchester Road.

Cllr Richards said: “The average age of the people that will be living there will be about 78 and they may not drive, but they will probably need homecare, so nurses and carers will have a car.

“Where are they all going to park?”

Churchill’s plan includes an 11-space car park at the development on the former Rayco Ford garage site, on the corner of Winchester Road and Bridge Road.

Cllr Richards added: “I’ve heard it said on the street that Romsey is fast becoming God’s waiting room, with proposals to build accommodation for the elderly at Duttons Road and Hillier’s site in Botley Road.

“I am concerned about a statement made by the applicant that there is a high demand from local people for sheltered homes for the elderly.

“I suspect that some of these occupants will not be local residents.

“We can’t have the whole town covered in these retirement flats.

“We need more homes for younger people too.”

Director of Churchill Retirement Living, Andrew Burgess, said that building work was likely to start in September.

He said: “We are delighted that Test Valley councillors supported the planning application and recognised the quality of the design and the significant need for older people’s housing in Romsey.

“This will be our second retirement living development in Romsey and we are encouraged by the interest from prospective purchasers.

“We have substantial demand from recent enquiries so we are likely to sell out quickly.”