Controversial developer McCarthy and Stone has once again turned its attentions to Ely with the announcement of plans to build retirement apartments.

The company says it has “acquired an interest” in the G&J Pecks site, in Lisle Lane, and is proposing a new development of assisted living accommodation with “high-quality landscaping and car parking”.

G&J Peck is not closing and, according to McCarthy, intends to re-locate to new premises in Ely.

The announcement comes just a year after McCarthy and Stone saw plans for 20 retirement flats in Cambridge Road, Ely, turned down after a lengthy battle with neighbours.

The developer says it is “committed to engaging with the local community” and is offering neighbouring residents and community representatives the opportunity to meet with the project team to discuss the proposals.

A public exhibition is also scheduled to be held in the coming weeks, with dates still to be confirmed by McCarthy.

No plans have yet been entered to East Cambridgeshire District Council and the company says proceedings are still “at an early stage”.

Darren Humphreys, regional managing director of McCarthy and Stone, Midlands, said: “We’re keen to develop a scheme which positively contributes to the local community both through the high-quality, attractive design and the increase in local housing choice the development would bring to the area.

“McCarthy and Stone believe that Ely is an area where there is a need for this type of specialist accommodation for local older people. In addition, future occupants are typically looking to ease the burden of maintaining a larger family property, which would allow these homes to become available on the market for younger families.”

Lisle Lane is already home to a development of sheltered housing, with a number of apartments and houses in nearby Belt Holt.