Plans for £7 million '˜care village'

NDC Group of Wellingore proposes to build 70 self-contained bedrooms and nine independent living bungalows on the land off Grantham Road next to the Cliff Village Medical Practice.

Outline plans for the scheme have been submitted to North Kesteven District Council for consideration. It would cover 8.2 acres and provide 84 parking spaces.

The single storey building is designed to blend into the landscape, being set well back from the road.

In the report NDC Group states: “The occupant can live within a self contained unit which consists of a kitchen, disabled bathroom, living area and double bedroom leading onto a private garden. Alternatively they can make greater use of the extensive communal areas that are provided within the complex.” These include a main dining room, dayrooms, gymnasium, pharmacy, hydrotherapy and hairdressing salon.

The applicants say: “This proposed site is considered ideal due to its size and access to local amenities, pedestrian and transport links, as well as community activities and recreational facilties at The Venue nearby.”

They said it would provide much needed ground floor accommodation for a rapidly increasing elderly population.

A public meeting was held at The Venue in January for residents to view the proposals.

Many acknowledged an increasing need for elderly care. It was suggested that the speed limit along that section of Grantham Road should be reduced to 30mph and a road crossing for pedestrians created. Some residents have objected to the infilling between Navenby and Wellingore in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Dan Godfrey of Grantham Road, Navenby added that it would also put greater strain on the neighbouring GP surgery.

Wellingore Parish Council is in favour in principal.