Plans to build 58 retirement homes on the site of a former Royal British Legion (RBL) building in Felixstowe have been submitted, but have sparked concerns about a lack of parking.

Developer Churchill Retirement Living has applied to East Suffolk Council for permission to build the homes for the over-60s where the RBL's Goyfield House premises once stood in Mill Lane.

However, consultee Felixstowe Town Council has objected to the proposals due to its "serious concerns" about the provision of 21 parking spaces, citing Suffolk County Council's parking policy which required one space per home.

READ MORE: Churchill unveils plans for Mill Lane in Felixstowe

East Anglian Daily Times: Before and after photos of the new development of 58 retirement homes at the former Royal British Legion site in FelixstoweBefore and after photos of the new development of 58 retirement homes at the former Royal British Legion site in Felixstowe (Image: Churchill Retirement Living)In responding to the application, the town council said: "Whilst some departure from policy may be acceptable, in this case the provision of only 21 car parking spaces is woefully inadequate. We believe that there should be considerably more spaces provided."

In a design and access statement with the plans, the developer said the aim was to provide a "high quality development" which would enable older people to stay healthy and live independently for longer.

READ MORE: Plans will be submitted for the site in Mill Lane Felixstowe

These benefits would equate to a saving of about £264,000 a year for local health and social care, the statement added.

It said: "Churchill Retirement Living’s vision for the site is to deliver a development that meets our customers’ needs and the local need for retirement apartments whilst also contributing to the character of Felixstowe and making a positive contribution locally in terms of socio, economic and environmental benefits.

"Our aim is to create a high quality development that embraces sustainable design, enhances the setting of the area and maintains the local vernacular."

READ MORE: Felixstowe news

A local resident has also objected to the plans.

The neighbour was concerned the new apartment block was too high at three storeys, compared to the former RBL building, which was two storeys.

Meanwhile, trees and hedges had been removed with "no respect" for wildlife, while the lack of parking was also a concern.