A controversial 32-retirement flat plan set to replace Marlow Police Station has officially been presented to the council - despite resident's concerns over the lack of parking spaces.

Back in March dozens of Marlovians turned up to view the initial plans for the 1960’s station on Dean Street, after it was confirmed last year it would be sold to Churchill Retirement Living.

Plans received mixed reactions, with Churchill receiving nine comments in support of the development, seven objections and one undecided comment.

Residents aired concerns with the lack of parking, the style of the building and the impact the development would have on neighbours -according to a statement released by developers this month.

Despite these concerns the new set of plans presented to Wycombe District Council on Wednesday, July 13 showed no changes to the parking layout.

According to the plans only 13 parking spaces will accommodate the 32 retirement flats proposed, which comes as a blow to campaigners calling for better parking in the town.

Churchill’s website admits that spaces on all its developments are limited, and encourages visitors to use offsite parking.

A spokesperson for the company insisted the number of spaces meets the requirement of one space per 2.3 apartments in retirement homes.

He also said that many of their residents do now have cars because they are elderly, and can access everything they need on foot or via public transport.

However the design has been altered so the building fits in with its immediate location – rather than the Georgian style in the town centre – and the size has been reduced with immediate neighbours in mind.

A statement from Churchill Retirement Living said: “In response to the comments received through the consultation process and through the pre application process, the design of the scheme has been significantly changed from that which was exhibited.

“There has been a significant change to the overall character to draw influence from the immediate surroundings rather than the Georgian character found in the town centre.

“The bulk and mass of the building has also been reduced, particularly at the rear to limit impacts on neighbours”.

The application has been praised by residents for its location, need for retirement housing in Marlow and the preservation of a police station in the town.

The station has been up for sale since February last year after Thames Valley Police announced £44.6m of savings had to be made on top of the £58.9m shaved off its budget since 2011/12.

The scheme will be made up of one and two bedroom flats for over 60’s complete with a garden, and plans include the development of a smaller custom built station for Marlow officers.