A state-of-the-art eco-friendly residential development for the retired could inspire similar developments if a multimillion pound planning application is given the go-ahead.

Designed by architects behind Beddington Zero Energy Development, developer Leo McAteer hopes the Home for Lifetime project in Downs Road, Coulsdon, will provide luxury retirement accommodation with a community atmosphere, at the same time as fulfilling Croydon Council's ecological and housing aims.

The council recently said it was looking for a suitable site to build something similar to Beddington in Croydon.

Mr McAteer, who already owns and runs care and nursing homes on the proposed site, said the facilities he currently manages are no longer suitable for the same purpose, and is prepared to knock down the 100-year-old detached houses to make way for the vision he hopes will materialise within two years.

He would transfer current residents to the new homes, which would have nursing facilities for 12 people, and around 25 apartments would be made available for purchase by the over 65s.

Light would stream into apartments through glass walls and ceilings and be used for heating via solar panels.

Residents could take in magnificent views over Farthing Downs, tend allotments on the roof garden, or take a drive in a battery powered car. Heat and rain water would be recycled. In-house services would include hydrotherapy, nursing, a restaurant, physiotherapy, and a day centre.

He said: "We have tried to meet the council's Agenda 21 green criteria and the Government's targets on meeting the demographic changes in the population and recognising the needs of retired and elderly."

Asked what he thought Croydon's older generation would feel about moving into such a futuristic environment, he said comfort and independence are most important the only difference would be how bright things looked.

The council has notified nearby residents and has set a deadline of December 6 for objections.

December 3, 2001 14:00