Watford's MP Dean Russell has described himself as "disappointed" and "increasingly concerned" after a planning application was submitted to demolish homes that were intended for war veterans.
The application, validated on Thursday (November 7), would see 42 buildings demolished to make way for 146 dwellings in Kytes Drive, Watford.
Kytes Drive was built in 1948 from charity donations, with the homes intended for war veterans living with disabilities.
While fewer veterans now live in the 56 bungalows, many of its residents are people with disabilities.
Watford's MP has expressed concern over the suitability of the new homes for existing residents in the area.
Dean Russell MP told The Watford Observer: "Through meeting with residents on a number of occasions, I understand they are concerned about the suitability of the new homes and have repeatedly expressed their wish for accessible bungalows and not the replacement cottages.
"I am disappointed that the planning application fails to deliver a larger number of like-for-like bungalows which effectively forces residents, who have lived there for many years, to be re-homed in cottages requiring a lift against their wishes."
The Conservative politician has also claimed that the site's proposed developer, Anchor, has not responded to his concerns and are failing to listen to residents.
He continued: "I have attempted to engage positively with Hanover on behalf of residents but have to express my strong disappointment that the chief executive of Anchor has not yet responded to my correspondence.
"I am growing increasingly concerned that, despite promises to listen to residents, the developers are failing to listen to the ever-growing resident concerns."
In October, amid a 1,600-strong petition opposing the plans, Dean Russell raised the issue in Parliament and called for a legally binding covenant to ensure Kytes Estate will continue to offer purpose-built accommodation for individuals over the age of 55.
The MP added: "My further concerns relate to the lack of movement on the covenant for Kytes Drive.
"This covenant should ensure that Kytes Drive always includes well-maintained accommodation to house people over the age of 55, those with disabilities, veterans and their families.
"It is important that this is in place to give residents the peace of mind they deserve."
Lastly, Dean Russell MP called on Watford residents to have their say on the issue.
He concluded: "With the planning application now publicly announced, it is crucial for each resident to make their voice heard on this matter.
"I urge fellow Watford residents to write in expressing their views to the planning department and making sure Kytes Drive residents are supported."
When approached for comment, a spokesperson for Anchor said: "Anchor’s chief executive wrote to Dean Russell MP on October 17, 2023 to address his concerns.
"We are working with our local authority partners to actively seek to secure a sensitive local authority lettings agreement that prioritises future lettings on a redeveloped Kytes Drive estate for disabled and veteran housing needs, via a nominations agreement.
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"This would be linked to any planning approval and therefore ensure increased provision of specialist housing.
"We have written to him again (8 December) to reiterate our commitment to working with him to meet the needs of current and future residents, and would be happy to meet with him.”
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