PLANS for an extra care development in Prestwick have been submitted to South Ayrshire Council.

The proposed development hopes to create 69 specialist retirement apartment for people over the age of 70 at Links Road.

Lodged plans proposed by YourLife, a partnership between McCarthy & Stone and Somerset Care, will provide access to tailored packages of care and support, available 24 hours a day, and include a serviced restaurant, lounge, laundry, sun terrace and visitors guest suite.

The application follows a three month consultation with local residents and community representatives earlier this year, including a public exhibition which was attended by 54 people.

Of the provided feedback, 54 per cent of those who attended supported the proposal, while 89% felt more specialist accommodation for elderly people was needed locally.

As a direct result of the consultation, McCarthy & Stone, made several changes to the application.

This includes a more traditional finish, with the predominant material now being cast stone and light coloured render.

Some brick will be retained to create feature panels and the north-west corner of the building has been made bolder by adding a raised parapet and wraparound corner feature balconies.

In response to concerns about the proximity of the neighbouring golf course, the layout of the building has been changed from an L to a T shape to safeguard the proposed area and Golf Club from exposure to any errant golf shots.

Russ Stewart, development director of McCarthy & Stone in Scotland, said: “We’ve addressed comments raised at the consultation and have made changes to the proposal as a direct result of feedback.

“It is pleasing that the proposed Extra Care facility will maintain the historical care use established on site and provide wider social and health benefits to residents and the community.

“We have aimed to make the best use of the site and maximise amenity space, while protecting the neighbouring properties through the positioning of the building, windows and balconies, which ensures there is no direct overlooking of the adjacent townhouses.

“McCarthy & Stone is committed to consulting with the local community and we would like to thank everyone who attended the consultation events and gave us their views.”