Retirement village plans approved on appeal

The inspector said it would be feasible to adequately drain the site, so it would not create an increased flood risk.

The Environment Agency had also expressed concerns that the development would disturb historic landfill, causing illegal waste activity.

Harry Boparai, SBC councillor for Sunbury Common, said: “Spelthorne Council has been steadfast in representing the interests of its residents, and we gave everything we could to oppose this appeal.

“This result is profoundly disappointing for us all.”

Conditions on the approval include restrictions on the hours of construction, a buffer zone to protect wildlife and an assessment of the risks of contamination.

Ellen Pearce, head of planning for Inspired Villages, had said the development would help meet “the growing need for specialist housing for older people in Spelthorne”, and include an on-site medical facility.