A multi-million-pound bid to build a new retirement complex in Blairgowrie has won crucial backing from planners.
Leading construction firm McCarthy and Stone, which specialises in private retirement properties, hopes to begin work on the 36-flat development early next year after securing conditional consent.
The building, which is aimed at people over 60, will be built on the site of the town’s tennis club, which is relocating to another part of town.
It will feature a shared lounge, guest suite, landscaped gardens and a 24-hour emergency call system overseen by a house manager.
The £4.1 million project was unveiled to residents at a public consultation event earlier this year.
Developers reported positive feedback with 66% of the 46 people who attended a consultation event giving it their support.
McCarthy and Stone managing director Steve Wiseman said feedback from residents was used to shape the development.
Following some criticism, the building was moved back from the street by nearly 10ft.
Mr Wiseman said yesterday: “I would like to thank the local community for their contributions to the consultation process and for helping to shape the final plans.
“The development will have significant benefits for local people, helping to improve housing options for older people and in turn freeing up family homes for sale in the local area.”
He added: “We believe this development will consider much needed housing for older people as well as helping to invest in the local area, supporting local shops and services.”
The application was granted planning permission, subject to approval of a final report on traffic access.
There were no objections to the plan.
McCarthy and Stone hope to begin construction in the spring, with the first homeowners expected to arrive in early 2017.
The complex is expected to support up to 60 jobs during the construction phase and there will be four posts created once the centre is open.
Blairgowrie Tennis Club’s move to JJ Coupar Recreation Ground has already been approved by councillors.
The relocation allows the group to create a new clubhouse and five all-weather, competition-standard courts.