ANGRY residents in Yate have vowed to oppose plans to build a block of retirement flats on land they say they were promised would be a community space.

Churchill Retirement Living has revealed proposals for a number of one and two bedroom apartments on a site next to Normandy Drive, claiming the development would meet an “urgent need” for elderly housing.

But the plans come as a blow to nearby residents, who successfully campaigned against two previous attempts by developers to build homes on the site.

Many are frustrated that the land has been targeted for development, after they were told that it would never be used for housing.

“We were sold our house on the promise that the land behind it would be used for a community space,” said resident Kathryn Frost, who purchased her new build home from Taylor Wimpey six years ago.

“It was a lie though, because we’ve had to knock two planning applications back since then.”

She added: “To be fair to this one, it’s definitely the best so far.”

Odette Ko and Raz Elahi, who live directly behind the proposed site, say that the retirement flats would have a “direct impact on their quality of life”.

They are both concerned about the height of the building, which they believe would block most of the light going into their property, as well as parking. 

“The parking situation around here is already a nightmare,” said Raz.

“We’re not against the land being developed, but it would make much more sense for the space to be used as a community building.”

Odette added: “We bought this house because of the lovely green space behind the garden, which we were told would not be developed.

“Young children like to play on that grass, if they take it away there will be no-where for them to go.”

Local councillors have since voiced their opposition to the proposals.

“We have fought hard to stop this land being built over completely, it was meant to be used by the community,” said Cllr Ruth Davis. 

“There has been no discussion with local councillors about these latest plans.” 

Cllr Claire Young added: “People in the area have told me there is nowhere else for their children to play games locally without crossing busy roads, and parking on the narrow streets is also a massive issue.

“It is vital local people have their say in what the land is used for.”

Despite the objections to the plans, Andrew Burgess, Churchill’s group land and planning director, told the Gazette that the proposal would help meet an “urgent need” for private retirement housing in Yate.

He said: “The land is not protected as open space by any existing planning policy. 

“It is a windfall housing site that will contribute towards the council’s five year housing land supply, which is currently in deficit.

“Our planned development will also bring benefits to the local economy, helping to boost local businesses.”