A SHELTERED housing complex in Silverdale is set to build an extra 14 residences - but concerns have been raised about the distance of the site from the main village amenities.

The Abbeyfield Silverdale and District Society plan to build eight two-bedroom bungalows, two three-bedroom bungalows and four two-bedroom flats at Cove House, on Cove Road - a complex that provides sheltered accommodation for elderly people.

The development will meet the needs set out in the Strategic Housing Market Assessment 2008 and the housing requirements in Silverdale.

However, Silverdale Parish Council, Lancaster City Councillor, Sarah Fishwick and 12 local residents have raised concerns over the position of the site and access along Cove Road.

The parish council also questioned the need for more sheltered accommodation in Silverdale.

Coun Fishwick said that frail, elderly people would not be able to access the village facilities without transport and the only public transport is the Silverdale shuttle bus – which is currently under threat of closure.

She also said the development is inappropriate, over intensive and incapable of meeting the needs of people with disabilities.

LCC planning officers recommended the scheme for approval on the basis that it met local needs.

It was decided that the applicants must retain part of the existing belt of trees and all residents must be from the Silverdale and Arnside area and over 55.

Officers said “the position of the site on the edge of the village is compensated for by the presence of the existing Cove Road care facility, which is well equipped to provide the level of support needed by the intended residents.”

Lancashire County Council is expected to ask the developer for money towards the cost of traffic calming measures and sign improvements and for a contribution towards the Silverdale Shuttle to upgrade and improve the service.