A retirement property developer has submitted plans for the redevelopment of The Knowle in Sidmouth. 

McCarthy Stone's proposals comprise of a purpose-built care home, as well as extra care and retirement living accommodation. 

The plans also include four semi-detached houses, three townhouses and two chalet bungalows.

An initial two-week consultation was held in July 2022. That was followed by a second consultation between November and December 2022.

Feedback from both public consultations, as well as those initial concerns associated with the site’s previous consent, has helped inform the submitted plans.

McCarthy Stone says it will continue to listen and respond to the views of local residents and stakeholders, with regard to the proposals post-submission.

The company also says that research undertaken by WPI Economics considered the economic impacts of having specialist retirement accommodation.

The research indicates that a development in Sidmouth with 86 retirement living units, would likely generate around £1,051,110 of spending per year, £663,155 of which would go to local businesses.

Shane Paull, Divisional Managing Director at McCarthy Stone Southern Division said: “Our proposals for Sidmouth have been shaped by public feedback, and we have provided residents with the opportunity to provide us with their views since we initially acquired an interest in the site last year.

“Our plans represent a sensitive, well-designed development that will help improve accommodation choice for older people in the local area and will help to address a local demand for retirement accommodation, providing housing choice for older people, whilst freeing up the wider housing market for local families and first-time buyers further down the chain.” 

McCarthy Stone and Porthaven have recently submitted plans to East Devon District Council. Residents that have any further comments or require more information can contact the project team with any questions via a Freephone Information Line on 0800 298 7040, email feedback@mccarthyandstoneconsultation.co.uk, or visit the project website: mccarthyandstoneconsultation.co.uk/sidmouth

The plans are also avaialble to view on the East Devon district Council website referencing 23/0571/MFUL. You can comment on the plans before they are considered by planning officers.