PLANS to build 58 new retirement apartments on a former Royal British Legion site in Felixstowe have been approved despite concerns.

East Suffolk Council's planning committee members discussed plans to build the new apartments in 39 Mill Lane, Felixstowe, yesterday evening.

Churchill Retirement Living's bid for the site was initially discussed last month, but a decision was deferred until more information could be provided.

The deferral was due to concerns raised by residents over the lack of parking on-site, with 25 spaces serving the 58 apartments.

New plans presented yesterday included four additional spaces, which planning officers said were 'significantly higher than the predicted demand'.

Despite this, however, parking and road safety concerns remained.

Michael Mellish, a resident, said: "The increase in spaces is welcome but it seems to have been at the expense of delivery and emergency services.

"We need a much better workable plan before any approval is given."

Rosie Roome, representing the applicant, said the proposal would bring a vacant brownfield site back into use and highlighted the scheme's benefits, including improvements to nearby bus stops to include real-time information.

She said: "It's critical that we provide choice in the housing market – this development will not be for everyone, particularly those who are still very active.

"It's essential that we provide options for people who want to downsize to a more accessible form of accommodation in a location close to the town centre."

To purchase one of the apartments, buyers would need to be aged 60 or over with a spouse or partner of at least 55-years-old.

The company estimated the development could save the NHS as much as £264,000 per year, as well as generate £449,000 in spending in local shops and services, though these figures were challenged against the extra pressure on GP services.

During the debate, there were several concerns shared by councillors, including fears of adding to what was already a problematic area in relation to road safety.

Cllr Mike Deacon said: "Local people know that area to be really dangerous, there have been frequent reports of scuffs and bangs."

On the other hand, councillors highlighted the need for more retirement homes across the district.

Cllr Colin Hegdley said: "We're in danger of getting hung up on parking — everyone has a choice, no one is being forced to live in this place, and that is the bottom line."

Despite the concerns, when voting, councillors decided to go with the planning officer's recommendation and approve the plans subject to conditions, with seven votes for and two against.