FESTIVAL Housing has reached a “mile-stone” in its plans for a multi-million pound retirement development in Malvern Link after submitting a full planning application.

The association proposes building an “independent living scheme” housing 126 units for over 55s on the site of Alexander Gardens and Brookside, off Gloucester Close.

It would replace 76 sheltered units currently located on the site.

The development, similar to the existing Rose Garden Independent Living Scheme in Hereford, would incorporate a restaurant, a gym, a spa-pool and a well-being room - all available for use by the local community.

But the proposed scheme has attracted controversy since it was first announced in early 2008. A bid for £3.8m from the Department of Health to finance the project was rejected, leaving Festival yet to secure funding.

Worcestershire county councillor Clive Smith believes the development would be an improvement but that residents have been caused undue stress with the delays to the project.

He said: “I’ve actually put an email into Guy Weston, the head of Festival. The gestation period is inordinately long and it’s caused an awful lot of upset and trauma and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere at the moment.”

Richard Grounds, director of Festival, said: “Submitting the planning application is an important mile-stone for the proposed extra care retirement development.

“We understand that it has been an anxious period for residents and we have worked very closely with residents to ensure their support needs and house preferences have been met. We are looking forward to making further progress on this important development for Malvern.”