Osborne House to be developed

Petitioners urged councillors to reject the controversial homes earmarked for Osborne House on The Ridge.

And speaking at a planning meeting last week, anti-development campaigner Aubrey Ingleton lamented the continued 'architectural rape' of the area.

He said: "They (the developer) want to demolish a landmark Victorian building 150 years old in good condition. The building should be retained.

"Osborne House is the home of around 30 residents with learning difficulties and has been their home for more than 50 years in some cases."

Other people had already expressed concern over what would happen to the residents, the majority of whom are elderly.

Paul Ricketts, speaking on behalf of the applicant Sutton and Marton Primary Care Trust, said alternative accommodation would be provided in Queens Road, Elphinstone Road and London Road.

However, petitions questioned whether these would be suitable or still provide the same levels of 24-hour care currently enjoyed at Osborne House.

However, the concerns fell on deaf ears, with councillors unanimous in their support of the plans.

Cllr Peter Armstrong said he was particularly pleased to see the applicant include family homes in the plans, while Cllr Godfrey Daniel said: "Personally, this looks like a nice quality development and I cannot think of a reason to turn it down."

The plans were outline only, meaning the opposition will have another chance to protest when the full detailed proposals come before planners.