A resident at a new retirement complex says cars have been left covered in tree debris, sap and bird mess because homeowners have not been given the enclosed spaces they paid for.

The man, who did not wish to be named, said residents at Squadron House in Eagle Way in Martlesham had provided developers McCarthy Stone with a one-off £7,500 payment in return for a covered parking spot.

However, he said these places were not provided and instead cars were being parked in 16 spaces under trees, which resulted in the vehicles getting dirty.

READ MORE: Squadron House in Martlesham Heath officially opens

The home, which caters for the over-60s, opened in August and the first customers were offered enclosed spaces for £10,000, but these all sold out, the resident said.

He added: "We were then offered spaces for £7,500 across the way, but we weren't told it is a mess going there under the trees.

Squadron House was opened in AugustSquadron House was opened in August (Image: Lucy Taylor) "We bought a space that should have been free of encumbrances, in other words."

He said the situation was particularly difficult for people with disabilities who could not keep putting covers on their cars to keep the mess off.

READ MORE: Martlesham: New homes' name reflects site military history

He added when he tried calling McCarthy Stone, nobody was answering the phone.

The trees are subject to a Tree Protection Order (TPO) from East Suffolk Council, which protects specific trees or woodland from damage and destruction.

A spokesperson for McCarthy Stone said: “We are aware that there are a small number of car parking spaces impacted by the trees, which have a TPO from the local authority and we are currently in discussions with the affected homeowners, who have raised a concern, to find a suitable way forward for all parties.”

Councillor John Fisher, vice-chair of East Suffolk Council, officially opened Squadron House in August.

East Suffolk Council vice-chairman John Fisher cut the ribbon to open the new retirement complex in AugustEast Suffolk Council vice-chairman John Fisher cut the ribbon to open the new retirement complex in August (Image: McCarthy Stone) He said: "It really is a stunning development that offers a retirement living environment with independence and community at its heart.

"I know from my discussions on the day when I visited that there is much interest and I welcome the addition of the McCarthy Stone development to the local community."

Alongside one and two-bedroom apartments, there is also a host of communal spaces where people can socialise, including a lounge and well-maintained landscaped patio area.