PLANS are afoot to develop a derelict school site in Portishead into residential accommodation with care for older people in the community.

The site in Slade Road, close to the town’s High Street, housed Portishead Primary School from 1914 until it relocated to new premises in Station Road in 2003.

It was purchased by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but they have scrapped plans to build a Mormon church on the site after their congregations in Weston and Clevedon merged and adequate space was provided at their base in Weston.

The old school buildings were demolished years ago, leaving it as a fairly clear, brownfield site.

Last week, representatives for Gladman Care Homes gave a presentation to members of Portishead Town Council’s planning committee ahead of making a formal planning application.

The proposed development includes 51 one, two and three-bed apartments and 25 car parking spaces. Communal facilities suggested in the plans include a bistro restaurant, lounge, IT suite, hairdressers, therapy and hobby rooms and a community room.

The scheme is expected to employ around 20 people.