Street residents are being given a first look at the proposed design for the new retirement living complex planned for the site of the Crispin Centre.

The once-thriving shopping precinct, established in 1979, has seen a gradual decline since the closure of its Tesco Metro store.

It is now slated for redevelopment by Aberdare Estates Ltd, in collaboration with Churchill Retirement Living, subject to planning permissions.

The envisioned project will transform the current site into a community of retirement homes, featuring 45 apartments and 11 cottages.

These dwellings are specifically designed for residents over 60, focusing on accessibility and comfort. The proposed layout of the site ensures easy navigation and fosters a sense of community among the residents.

A key aspect of the design is its homage to Street's local architecture. The buildings are planned to exhibit a traditional design, echoing the domestic vernacular of the area. This includes the use of Blue Lias Stone and complementary facing bricks for the principal wall materials. Adding a touch of distinction, contrasting red bricks will accentuate window surrounds and quoins. The roofs are to be adorned with red/orange Double Roman tiles, a nod to the region's roofing tradition.

The developers have made a conscious effort to include environmental considerations in their design. The outdoor areas will be developed for passive recreational activities, with plantings chosen for their durability, seasonal colour, and contribution to local biodiversity.

A particularly noteworthy element of the plan is the preservation of the Crispin Centre mural. This local artwork will be safeguarded and enhanced with a new timber canopy, ensuring its prominence in the renewed landscape.

The former Tesco store in the Crispin Centre

A spokesperson for Churchill said: "Much of the Crispin Centre has been vacant for some time and the few tenants that remain will be vacating their units in due course.

"The five retail units that front the High Street at 85 to 95 - (odd numbers only - WH Smith; Boots; Specsavers; O2; Pool Resources) - do not form part of the site and the rear yard servicing these units is proposed to be maintained as existing.

"The pedestrian link to the Southside car park will be also maintained as part of the proposed development."

The spokesperson added: "New retirement living homes in the town centre will create a considerable uplift in footfall and spending in local shops and support jobs on the high street.

"Research shows that a new retirement living community will generate extra spending in the region of £420,000 per year in the local high street."

This redevelopment offers a rare glimpse into the future living environment for Street's elderly population. The design, which combines traditional architectural elements with modern living needs, aims to create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing living space for the older generation.