Developer proposes retirement village

Plans are being considered in Barnstaple

A developer in north Devon is proposing to build a new self-contained retirement village on the outskirts of Barnstaple.

The American-style village idea is focussed on 26 acres around the site of an old food packing factory at Roundswell.

It would provide homes for more than 600 people with their own shops, security, medical facilities and even their own ambulance.

There has been no formal planning application yet, but talks are going on between the developers and officials from North Devon District Council.

Planning balance

The developer, Len Tanner, has said at least 600 people aged over 50 would live at the site.

He also said that up to 200 jobs could be created in and around the complex.

One its main features would be 24-hour security away from noise and disturbance.

But the idea is also to allow people who buy property there to develop their own recreation and social events, like bowling.

There would be a doctor's surgery, pharmacy, shops, a hairdresser, a special bus service and an ambulance.

North Devon District Council said of its planning procedures: "It is our policy to publicise and consult on all planning applications."