Retirement village

The decision had been 'called in' following concerns from nearby villagers, many of whom were dismayed by the news.

They fear the development will severely disrupt life in the village and that the country lane access to the site will be totally inadequate.

"Building 650 homes will make that site three times bigger than the actual village," said local councilor, Mort Allen.

"The access is totally unsuitable.

It' s not a road, it's a winding country lane, and it's going to be terrible for the holiday trade around here.

When they did a traffic survey they did it in winter, which was ridiculous.

Residents aren't happy but they are having to consign themselves to the fact that it' s been given the go ahead."

The retirement village will have most services on site, including shops, a swimming pool and social centre.

The Secretary of State has been considering the development since October 2001 and has laid down a number of conditions, which will give the local planning authority power over design, sitting and appearance.

Improvements to the access road, Carr Lane, will have to be carried out and the number of residential units must not exceed 650.

The site is owned by CJ Homes but they are expected to sell it on to a developer.

A spokesman for CJ Homes said: "We're delighted.

This development is going to put a lot of money into the area and put Morecambe on the map."

Demolition work could start soon as detailed plans are drawn up for consideration by city council planners.

Planning chairman, Cllr Keith Budden, said: "We very much welcome the Secretary of State's approval of this application which was supported by the City Council.

This development will bring into beneficial use a derelict site and hopefully encourage further investment in the area.

The Council will now seek a meeting with the applicants to find out how they envisage implementing this approval and on what timetable."