Two big plans for new homes in Wirral were submitted.
One of the proposals has been put forward by McCarthy Stone and would see 37 retirement homes built in Well Lane, Heswall, including 24 one-bedroom flats and 13 two-bedroom flats. The other, proposed by Nautilus International Ltd, seeks to build 27 supported living apartments for retired mariners on land off Richard Chubb Drive in Egremont.
The design and access statement for the Heswall plan, written by MCK Commercial Design, said the plan aims to provide a development which is sensitive to its surroundings and frees up existing family housing for local people. The firm said this would minimise the need for further development elsewhere.
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The statement continued: “[The plan aims to] provide suitable accommodation for the elderly in the area with a focus on providing high quality homes and services to make later life a happy and rewarding experience.”
Residents will get their own self-contained accommodation, as well as communal areas including a lounge and a mobility scooter charging room. The plan also features a guest suite for visitors with a lounge area and kitchen units for self-catering.
On parking, the statement added: “The proposals will include 27 car parking spaces with associated disabled, visitor and staff spaces all located within close proximity to the main entrance of the retirement living accommodation. Another feature of the development is its gardens."
On this, the statement read: “The communal gardens will provide a high standard of space with a quality planting scheme and patio seating areas for the homeowners.” Wirral Council must decide whether to accept or reject the proposal.
In Egremont, Nautilus International Ltd, a trade union for maritime professionals, wants to demolish Mere Bank and Nautilus House and build a three/four storey block featuring 27 supported living apartments for retired mariners. Mere Bank is a house converted into two apartments, while Nautilus House is an office building used by Nautilus International itself.
The planning statement, written by Mosaic Town Planning, said the proposal will contain office space for Nautilus International in addition to the apartments, while the ground floor features coffee making facilities, a lounge, a library and an entrance area which will be available as shared spaces available to both employees and residents.
The homes will be part of the wider Mariners’ Park estate which consists of 125 retirement homes set in grounds including open space, a bowling green and an embankment to the River Mersey. The park has been home to retired mariners since 1892, when the first cottage was built.
Advocating the proposal, the planning statement read: “The social benefits of this provision includes providing a safe environment, increasing social engagement and quality of life, as well as the reduction or delay of medical assistance for occupants.”
