A DATE has been set for a public inquiry into plans to build more than 40 retirement apartments in an upmarket Hampshire town.

It follows New Forest District Council's decision to reject two applications by Renaissance Retirement to demolish four houses at Stanford Hill, Lymington, and redevelop the site.

Plans for 45 flats for people aged 60 and over were refused by the council 2019.

The multi-million-pound scheme had been opposed by the town council and members of the influential Lymington Society - the area's conservation watchdog group.

People living near the site also lodged objections.

They criticised the scale and potential impact of the proposed development, claiming it would create extra traffic problems in the area as well as putting additional pressure on services for the elderly.

A subsequent proposal to build 44 apartments on the site was rejected last year, sparking an appeal by the applicants.

Now district council has announced that a public inquiry will be held online, starting on May 11.

Documents submitted in support of the appeal say: "The location makes this an excellent location for older persons’ housing.

“In delivering high-quality accommodation specifically suited to the needs of older people, it will play an important role in encouraging downsizing to free up under-occupied housing."