RETIREMENT homes could be demolished to make way for 37 “age restricted apartments” instead.

Developers Cottsway Housing Association have applied to West Oxfordshire District Council, the planning authority, to development the land at Ryegross in Woodstock.

The plans include demolishing the 18 one-bedroom bungalows and one warden dwelling to build four new apartment blocks containing 37 “affordable restricted apartments with communal facilities, parking, landscaping and associated development.”

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The apartments would be for people aged 55 and over and include 24 one-bedroom apartments and 13 two-bedroom apartments.

In a planning statement, Ridge and Partners LLP on behalf of Cottsway Housing Association said: “The scheme seeks to contribute towards housing need by delivering 37 affordable apartments, aiming to significantly boost the supply of housing within the local area.

“The new scheme includes 100% affordable rental housing that will contribute to the identified local affordable housing need within the area for smaller units of accommodation in an area which has an ageing population.

“The proposed scheme has been designed to reflect the local character of the area, having given consideration to the architectural design of local houses.

“The site is in a sustainable location with parking provided on site. In addition to this, secure parking is provided for mobility scooters and the site is within walking distance of a bus service providing access to Woodstock and nearby towns.”

For more information, visit planning application reference number 22/01768/FUL.