PLANS have been submitted to demolish the former magistrates court and build retirement homes.

But concerns have been raised that there is an ‘affordable housing crisis’ in Bridport and that homes are not being built to encourage young people and families to stay in the town.

The proposals by Churchill Retirement Living would see the construction of 26 one and two bedroom retirement apartments at Mountfield, Rax Lane. 

Bridport resident Rebecca Stones said: “Bridport needs more affordable homes for first time buyers and young families in order for the town to continue to grow.

“What this town needs is an incentive for the younger population to stay put in housing that they can afford and not for more retired people moving into the area.

“If we allow this type of application to continue then Bridport will become just another struggling seaside town with an elderly population and not the vibrant community that we need to encourage.”

The developers believe there is an urgent need for sheltered housing in West Dorset.

Research carried out by David Couttie Associates found that the age group of 65 years and above will grow from 28 percent in 2012 to 40 percent of the total population in 2037.

Andrew Burgess, director for planning at Churchill, said: “The proposed development of 26 units will increase access to private sheltered housing for local residents. 

"There is a significant forecast growth in the number of older people in the district whose housing requirements will not be met within the existing stock. The site is located close to the shops and amenities of Bridport town centre and is well served by public transport and provides sufficient parking.

"We have held pre-application discussions with West Dorset District Council and held a successful public exhibition." 

But Cllr Ros Kayes thinks that as well as retirement properties, other affordable housing should be a priority for the town.

“It is clear that the majority of people who come to live in this community are older rather than younger” she said. “Therefore that means that the available housing supply does tend to go to older people.

“There is an affordable housing crisis in the town. I have spent time trying to help people get on the housing register. We desperately need affordable housing to be built – but we also need proper accommodation for people who become infirm and unable to cope when they are living in their own. So I think we do need to look after the elderly population too."

Residents have until Saturday March 7 to have their say on the proposals at dorsetforyou.com