Developer plans to demolish Wycombe flats as eviction concerns grow
McCarthy Stone are submitting a planning application for new retirement community in Flackwell Heath, but it requires the eviction of those currently living there
Last updated 21st Aug 2024
McCarthy Stone has applied to Buckinghamshire Council for planning permission to demolish Aries House, a block of flats and shops in Flackwell Heath, and replace it with a new retirement community.
The proposed development includes 40 one- and two-bedroom apartments, a communal garden, five retail units, and 34 parking spaces, 25 of which would be for residents and nine for commercial use.
Residents of Aries House have expressed concerns about the impending evictions.
McCarthy Stone confirmed that three families still living in the flats will be required to vacate their homes through Section 21 notices, also known as ‘no-fault evictions’.
The notices have not yet been served, but residents have reported anxiety over the looming threat.
One resident stated, "I can’t sleep. It really is affecting my mental health and my husband, and I am sure the neighbours."
In response to the plans, some local businesses and residents have voiced their dissatisfaction.
A long-time resident of Aries House mentioned that she may have to leave the area due to the potential inability to afford other local properties.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the adequacy of parking in the proposed development.
Local councillor David Johncock highlighted that there isn’t "overwhelming support" for the plans, citing the scale of the development and parking provisions as key issues.
Despite these concerns, McCarthy Stone maintains that the development is beneficial for the local housing market.
The company asserts that the new retirement community could free up at least 80 homes for different stages of the housing ladder.
Mark Bryan, Divisional Development Director at McCarthy Stone North London, said, "There is a recognised need for specialist retirement accommodation in Flackwell Heath and the surrounding area, and this proposal would go some way to addressing that."
McCarthy Stone also emphasised the potential benefits for the local health services, suggesting that residents in specialist retirement accommodations experience a reduced risk of health challenges, contributing to savings for the NHS and social care services.
They added that the development could relieve pressure on local greenfield sites by allowing existing family homes to become available on the market.
The developer noted that it had conducted a public consultation and made adjustments in response to community feedback.
For instance, arrangements are being made to ensure that the Boots pharmacy currently on-site can continue operating during the construction phase and retain a retail unit in the completed development.
A spokesperson said “Those living immediately adjacent to the site were sent a personal letter from McCarthy & Stone offering a one-to-one meeting appointment to discuss the proposals. In parallel, tenants occupying flats on the site were offered one-to-one meetings to outline the plans and explain the process, providing a longer notice period throughout the process than the statutory requirement. The landlord and its managing agent are continuing to work closely with the residential tenants to help find alternative accommodation, liaise with the council and provide references and compensation.
As part of the proposals, new retail units will also be re-provided. Provision is also being made for the Boots pharmacy to maintain services for the local area throughout the construction phase. Other existing tenants will be able to express interest in the replacement commercial units ahead of them being marketed more widely. Various local locations are being explored to find an alternative home for the Boxing Club which is currently occupying the former supermarket rent free as a temporary community use, with the potential option to agree a commercial lease in one of the new units.”
Buckinghamshire Council is expected to make a decision on the planning application in the coming months.