PERMISSION has been given for Chipping Campden's Cotswold Garages to be demolished and replaced with retirement apartments and affordable accommodation.

A Cotswold District Council planning committee meeting approved Doug Jones' application for permission to demolish the Sheep Street garages and construct a residential building comprising 24 sheltered retirement apartments, eight affordable apartments, ancillary facilities, access and car parking.

Councillors approved it on the grounds that it would enhance a commercial site currently detracting from a conservation area's appearance, provide residential units in a sustainable location, meet a shortage of one and two-bedroom apartments and be accessible by walking, cycling or public transport.

Approval was subject to the applicant providing affordable housing and contributing £4,576 towards the local library service.

The council received six letters from neighbours objecting on the grounds that the development was too large, there was insufficient parking and there was a flood risk.

The Campden Society expressed concerns about flooding and parking in Sheep Street, which already suffers traffic congestion.

However, planning officer Martin Perks' report to the meeting said: "It is considered to represent a visual improvement of the existing garage site.

"Issues such as flooding, land contamination and parking have been fully considered by the Environment Agency and Gloucestershire County Council."