YORKSHIRE Housing has submitted plans for its former sheltered housing site at Roughaw Close, Skipton.

The planned 12 apartments will initially be aimed at older people, or those with limited mobility, although that will be subject to demand.

They will feature widened door ways and halls and ground floor ramps for easier access, parking, and be offered at affordable rent.

If approved by Craven District Council, the apartments will be built mainly from the social landlord borrowing, but also with a Homes and Communities Agency grant contribution – for general needs use.

The former sheltered housing block was one of three schemes, including Greatwood Close in Skipton, Reid House, Ingleton, and Aynham Close, Grassington, which was announced for closure in January last year.

Yorkshire Housing said at the time that the schemes - together totalling 84 flats and bedsits - were no longer fit for purpose and that all residents would be rehoused in more suitable accommodation.

All residents at Roughaw Close have been rehoused.

Skipton councillor Robert Heseltine, who campaigned on behalf of the residents and called for the replacement units to be aimed at older people, said the relocation of residents had been achieved by compassion on the part of Yorkshire Housing.

Yorkshire Housing is currently discussing grants and hopes to submit plans for the other sites in the autumn.