By Chris Story

Last updated at 15:46, Friday, 13 April 2012

Plans are progressing to turn a former bakery into a sheltered housing complex.

Specialist developer McCarthy & Stone wants to transform the site once occupied by Greggs in Penrith.

If their proposals are given the go-ahead, the land would become 48 apartments for older people, giving a fresh look to that corner of town.

The firm has already held talks with townspeople over their plans, the latest to emerge as it attempts to expand in north Cumbria.

Now they have tabled revise drawings with Eden Council, with the aim of moving the development forward.

They have two applications currently with the authority – one to redevelop the former Greggs bakery, off Benson Row, and another for listed building consent to demolish late 20th-century buildings on the site and a pele tower outbuilding.

Documents show the 48 apartments planned would be made up of 28 one-bedroom and 20 two-bedroom.

There would also be communal facilities, landscaping and parking on the site. As part of pre-application moves, 32 people attended a public consultation and discussed the scheme with developers.

A McCarthy & Stone spokeswoman said: “Our plans aim to meet the needs of residents keen to remain in Penrith. The proposal would offer an opportunity to introduce a sensitive form of development which will be designed to complement the surrounding area.”

Greggs remains one of Penrith’s most significant employers with a 105-strong team working from its new £4.5m North Lakes Bakery, replacing its two former bakeries in Friargate. It opened in September. Annually, 45 million sweet treats will be baked there.

In Carlisle, McCarthy & Stone is behind a scheme for 42 apartments, communal lounge areas, landscaping and car parking at St Augustine’s Social Club, Belah.

Proposals lodged with Carlisle City Council are the second to develop the site off Scotland Road, owned by the Catholic church. Councillors granted outline planning consent for 16 semi-detached houses in 2009.

The firm hopes its one and two-bedroom flats will be ready next year.

First published at 14:11, Friday, 13 April 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk