A new survey has launched over potential plans to transform the old Tesco site in Cirencester.

The former Tesco Superstore in Farrell Close has been vacant since April of last year, but it could soon be redeveloped.

Last month, Churchill Retirement Living submitted initial plans for a retirement complex with up to 70 apartments for older people.

The developer put forward an application to Cotswold District Council for an Environmental Impact Assessment Screening Opinion which was approved.

However, a full planning application has not yet been submitted.

The site became empty last year after Tesco decided to close its larger store and replace it with a new smaller Express store in Cricklade Street.

Churchill Retirement Living has now opened an online consultation asking members of the public for their views on the proposed scheme.

According to the survey, the development would have one and two bedroom apartments alongside communal areas such as a coffee bar, a lounge and outdoor space.

As part of the development, 22 new parking spaces would also be created.

However, housing would only be available for those over 60 years of age.

Meanwhile, the proposal also includes three commercial shop units at ground floor which would open onto Brewery Court.

Officials say the proposed commercial space could be let as one large space, or three multiple units.

Swindon Advertiser: CGI impression pictures of the existing (above) and proposed view (below) from Brewery CourtCGI impression pictures of the existing (above) and proposed view (below) from Brewery Court (Image: Churchill Retirement Living)

A Churchill Retirement Living spokesperson said: “Retirement housing is the most effective form of residential development for generating local economic growth, supporting local jobs, and increasing high street spend as it brings regular shoppers closer to the town centre.

“Our proposed development would help to revitalise Brewery Court with a mix of both residential and commercial space.

“It would also improve the health and wellbeing of those who live there and meet the housing needs of many older people in Cirencester and the surrounding area.

“Regenerating this previously developed site will also help to reduce the need for greenfield development to meet the urgent demand for new homes locally.

“As we prepare to submit a formal planning application, we are keen to gather feedback and give local people the opportunity to have their say on these exciting plans.”

The consultation is open until Sunday, June 2 which you can see here - tinyurl.com/bddza5mw

Swindon Advertiser: CGI impression pictures of the existing (above) and proposed view (below) from the Brewery Court Car ParkCGI impression pictures of the existing (above) and proposed view (below) from the Brewery Court Car Park (Image: Churchill Retirement Living)

Swindon Advertiser: CGI impression pictures of the existing (above) and proposed view (below) from Sheep Street Car Park CGI impression pictures of the existing (above) and proposed view (below) from Sheep Street Car Park (Image: Churchill Retirement Living)

Swindon Advertiser: The old Tesco in Farrell Close closed in April last yearThe old Tesco in Farrell Close closed in April last year (Image: Newsquest)