Builders have started work on a new block of apartments and a supermarket which were once likened to a cheap block on the Costa del Sol.

Initial plans for the controversial development sparked anger amongst some residents in Bourne End with the design of 25 retirement living homes and an additional Sainsbury’s store not deemed to be in keeping with the village.

However, McCarthy and Stone – the company behind the plans – resubmitted new drawings to Wycombe District Council last year and they were given the green light to progress with construction in April.

Having seen the first set of drawings, village residents’ association chairman, Jim Penfold, claimed the design looked akin to a block in the Costa del Sol.

But, looking at the resubmissions, he said: “It seems McCarthy and Stone have listened to Bourne End and it has listened to the councillors. Clearly there were issues with the design and nearly everyone wanted something traditional.

“I have not studied the plans closely or discussed them with the committee but my immediate impression is they will be more in keeping with the architectural style of Bourne End, and for that I am very grateful to McCarthy and Stone.”

Clearing work started in the site, in Parade Court, last month, but construction is soon to begin with the developers now releasing a new image of how they hope it to look on the landscape of Bourne end.

McCarthy and Stone have said the facilities will include a stunning club lounge and landscaped gardens.

The building will also have a concierge, a security entrance system, and 24-hour emergency call points.

Also included in the plans is the opportunity to open a supermarket on the ground floor of the development.

This too was a concerning point for Mr Penfold who has spoken regularly on the damaging effect of opening too many commercial supermarkets in the village.

Developers have appeared to be keen to work with residents though and mainly addressed design concerns when submitting new plans.

They were originally heavily criticised for being too modern and out of keeping with the surroundings.

But the new more traditional design with a pitched roof was appreciated by villagers.

For more information on the development, visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk What do you think of the new building? Have your say by emailing andrew.colley@london.newsquest.co.uk