PLANS have been approved to build 56 affordable housing apartments for retired residents with extra care needs.

The three-storey L-shaped complex is set to be constructed on Henry Street in Leigh where there would be a shared lounge on the ground floor for occupants.

The scheme, Wharfdale, which will include one and two bedroom apartments, will be delivered by Wigan Council's housing team and managed by a registered provider.

The plans propose to demolish a sheltered accommodation property on the site before building the complex, which will also offer garden areas and parking.

Blueprints of how the apartment complex on Henry Street. Picture: Wigan Council planning portal

READ > Village residents say neighbouring council is ‘marking its own homework’ by approving development

After 15 letters were sent to neighbouring properties about the plans, one letter of objection was made.

The representation argued that the scheme would cause a "loss of access and disturbance" during works which would effect businesses, and the scale of the building and loss of green space would affect the area's character and make the site "appear congested".

But the local authority published a report on Wednesday, which stated that the proposals have been given the green light.

The report said: "The proposed development would provide specialist extra-care housing which there is a need for in the borough.

"The principle of residential development is considered acceptable on this brownfield site, with the layout and form of the proposal designed to complement the application site character of the local area."

As part of the development, an open space contribution of £33,320 will be spent on improvements at Lilford Park.