Plans to build a very sheltered housing scheme in a Babergh village have been given the green light.

PLANS to build a very sheltered housing scheme in a Babergh village have been given the green light.

Members of Babergh District Council's Development Committee gave a 'thumbs up' to the proposals which will now see 32 flats and bungalows with associated communal facilities built in Capel St Mary on land off Days Road.

Work to identify a potential site in Capel began after a housing needs survey confirmed the need for housing that would provide care and support for the frail and elderly. Very sheltered housing allows elderly residents to retain their independence and live comfortably, with a high level of care and support provided.

Ian Tippett, Babergh's housing services manager, said: “This is a really good outcome as I know that many people in Capel St Mary are looking forward receiving the care that a scheme such as this can offer while remaining in their home village.”

Greg Dodds, new business manager at Orwell Housing Association, said: “We are delighted to receive consent for this much needed scheme after many years of hard work with all our partners.

“This will bring a high quality sheltered complex to local residents of Capel and surrounding areas and will be a real asset to the community - enabling older people to live in more appropriate housing for their needs, independently and safe in the knowledge that care and support is on hand if needed.”

And Stuart Harris, chairman of Capel St Mary Parish Council, added: “I am delighted that this scheme has received approval - many residents of Capel St Mary and the nearby villages have wanted this type of facility for years.

“Those local people who are in need of some looking after will now be able to stay in the community close to friends and relations rather than be forced to move away or struggle on in less suitable accommodation.

“This news will be widely welcomed in the village and I look forward to seeing the development take shape in the coming months.”

A legal restriction will be placed on the scheme that will mean residents from Capel St Mary and the surrounding parishes of Copdock and Washbrook, Great Wenham, Little Wenham, Bentley, Holton St Mary, East Bergholt and Raydon, will get priority.