PLANS have been unveiled for 99 new homes on the edge of a Ryedale town.

The proposal for land at the end of Ashwood Close, in Helmsley, includes a 64 apartment extra care facility, 35 houses, as well as associated parking and garden areas, and has been made by Jake and Melissa Duncombe and Doncaster-based developers Keepmoat.

The plot, which will be accessed from Ashwood Close, is currently an "overflow" playing field and agricultural grazing land and is allocated for mixed-use housing in the Ryedale Plan.

Martin Smithurst, regional managing director for Keepmoat, said: "We are pleased to be working with our partners Housing & Care 21, North Yorkshire County Council and Ryedale District Council on this development.

"We have worked in North Yorkshire over a number of years and this latest project in Helmsley will bring much-needed new housing for local people."

Ryedale District Council has written in support of the application, saying it is "important for the provision of extra care housing", and adding that such a development also helps the problem of a lack of affordable homes in the district.

Kris Peach, from not-for-profit housing provider Housing & Care 21, which will manage the apartments, said: "Extra Care means that people live independently in their own apartments, with their own living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens and front doors.

"But they also have access to communal facilities such as restaurants, hair salons and lounges. Care services are based on site and available 24/7.

"With an ageing population, providing high-quality, purpose-built housing for older people is a must, and developments such as this offer a real alternative to residential care. They allow people to maintain their independence while having all the support they need right on hand.

"We are excited to be moving forward with this development and look forward to working with our partners in Helmsley."

The scheme has received support from Helmsley Town Council, which discussed the plans at their meeting last Monday. Councillors praised the mix of building materials - brick and stone, slate and tile - but also raised concerns about the increased traffic through Ashwood Close, and the provision of parking spaces for staff and visitors at the facility.

North Yorkshire County Councillor Clare Wood, executive member for Adult Social Care and Health Integration, said: "High-quality Extra Care provision gives people what they have told us they want – to live independent lives in their own homes, with more choice and control over their support, so they can remain part of their local communities for longer."

The North York Moors National Park Authority, who will decide on whether to grant planning permission, are gathering consultation responses until November 16.