Plans to build more than 40 retirement apartments at a former dairy farm in Halesworth have been given the go-ahead, despite some concerns. 

Applicant McCarthy Stone submitted the proposals to build 43 one and two-bedroom apartments and 10 bungalows on land west of Saxons Way in 2021.

In the last week, these plans were approved by East Suffolk Council. 

Originally, Halesworth Town Council opposed the plans and cited problems with surface water drainage, issues with the design of the bungalows and a need for a more sustainable heating source. 

East Suffolk Council recieved 17 comments from neighbours, 10 of which were in support of the project and three of which objected. 

One neighbour called the development "dominating and overbearing" and shared concerns for wildlife in the area, while another said they thought the retirement community would be a "real asset" to Halesworth. 

Over the years, several amendments were made to the site plan including the acoustic boundary being increased to 3m, revisions of footpaths and pedestrian routes and parking bay size alterations.

Drainage plans were also reviewed and changed in several occasions and now have the approval of Suffolk County Council, subject to conditions.

In November 2022, the planning and highways committee of Halesworth Town Council said it was pleased the applicant had dealt with issues raised.

The main access to the site will be off Saxon Way, while a pedestrian access link will be created onto Swan Lane, which will be widened. 

A landscape buffer will be included where the development meets Swan Lane to ensure it integrates well with the street.

The development will be complete with communal gardens, bike and bin storage areas, parking for residents and visitors and sheds in the gardens of the bungalows. 

The apartments and bungalows will be for those over the age of 55 only.