THE former Brookside School site in Huntingdon, which has remained empty for a number of years, is set to be redeveloped into housing for older people. Social housing group Luminus has announced plans to build on the former site, on the ring road, after p

THE former Brookside School site in Huntingdon, which has remained empty for a number of years, is set to be redeveloped into housing for older people.

Social housing group Luminus has announced plans to build on the former site, on the ring road, after purchasing the land from Lidl.

The supermarket chain had hoped to build a new store on the land but failed to obtain planning permission.

The empty site has also recently been suggested for a new car park to take pressure off Huntingdonshire District Council to increase the number of spaces at Riverside Park.

Huntingdonshire District Council will rule on the application when submitted by Luminus.

The housing group's chief executive Chan Abraham said: "We are keen to provide a really high quality development that lifts this part of Huntingdon and gives everyone something to be proud of.

"Our plans are to provide high quality, modern housing for older people and for sale on the open market."

MP Jonathan Djanogly and Huntingdon Town Mayor Councillor Jeff Dutton who viewed the site with Mr Abraham were said to welcome the redevelopment.

Cllr Dutton said: "I am fully behind this redevelopment and Luminus can expect the full support of myself and the town council.

"The site has been left empty for three or four years and is a real eyesore and I truly believe it cost the town the Huntingdonshire in Bloom gold award last year.

"Redevelopment of the site will be good for Huntingdon offering more sheltered accommodation and bringing more people to the town."

INFORMATION: The site was once occupied by St Peter's School. After the school moved, the land was bought by Lidl and the buildings demolished in 2000.