CONCERNS have been raised about the closing of the gap between Bracknell and Ascot with plans to build a large care home between the towns set to be decided by the council.

Proposals for a care home supporting more than 70 elderly people at a new residential care facility on Swinley Road in Ascot were set to be refused by Bracknell Forest Council (BFC) because the development would be out of character with the rest of the area.

But councillors will decide on its merits after planning committee member Tony Virgo asked for it to be re-considered.

Residents living nearby to the site have written to the council outlining their fears about the planning application and in a letter to BFC, one said: “There is a green gap between Bracknell and Ascot and it is referred to repeatedly in local plans. It is not a joke nor is it something to be eroded. This application would erode it.”

Another wrote: “The proposal represents significant development within the green corridor between Bracknell and Ascot which is already being undermined by Brompton Gardens – formerly the Brackens. It will increase traffic on already congested roads and will unacceptably increase pressure on the existing infrastructure.”

Along with 73 assisted living units, the care home would feature a communal lounge, dining room, kitchen, hair salon and treatment room.

This would mean the building could be up to four stories high and some residents have raised concerns about the height of the proposed property.

In a letter to BFC, one said: “The proposed development will overlook the property resulting in a loss of privacy. At 3 and 4 stories high the property will be able to see into the garden, particularly if there are useable balconies on the higher floors.”

The site currently contains a large dilapidated two storey, detached building with old tennis courts within the grounds,.

At the entrance of the site is another dwelling forming a lodge, which is counted as a separate dwelling.

These buildings would be knocked down to build the new care home.

According to the planning application, the applicants Castleoak consider “if the proposal is allowed, it would assist the housing market by freeing up the larger family homes currently being occupied by this ageing population.”

Councillors are set to vote on whether to refuse or approve the application at a meeting of BFC’s planning committee on Thursday, 21 March.