OUTDATED bedsit bungalows could be transformed into modern flats for older people.

The Winnocks and Kendalls Almshouse Charity has submitted a planning application to redevelop seven bungalows it owns in Military Road, Colchester, and turn them into ten flats.

The properties, at 1-7 Winnocks, were built in the Thirties but are deemed outdated because the heating systems and bathrooms have barely been updated.

There are also problems with drainage and subsidence.

Michael Siggs, the charity’s clerk, said the redevelopment would be greatly beneficial to older people keen to avoid spending money on care homes.

He said: “These bungalows are well past their sell-by-date and some have terrible problems.

The only solution at this stage is probably to replace them.

“By installing up-to-date technology, we hope the residents will have a home for life, so the need to go into nursing or residential homes is avoided.

“We have had planning problems because the site is next to Grade I -listed Winnock’s Almshouses. But after discussions with English Heritage, we are confident we have its support.

“It is hoped the flats will provide accommodation suitable for the 21st century, but at the same time meet the long-term needs of older people in the area.”

The charity is still in talks to transform the former bus garage in nearby Magdalen Street into almshouses.

It plans to apply for grants from the second phase of the Government’s care and support specialised housing fund, which was launched last week.

Mr Siggs said: “We are still in discussions with the county council and St MaryMagdalen Hospital Almshouse Charity and we want to provide something which has NHS services on the ground floor and living quarters above it.

“We have to get our application together by Friday.

“Something like this is so badly-needed because it is so expensive to stay in care homes.”