TWO major developments in a town are due to be approved today despite objections.

A host of new homes and a new Spar shop are due to be built in Grange, with councillors expected to given plans the green light.

Some 177 new homes are planned on Allithwaite Road, with 87 of them coming in a mixture of two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes, bungalows, two-storey and semi-detached properties.

Marking phase two of the development, another 90 'extra care apartments' for the elderly are also due to be approved by members of South Lakeland District Council's planning committee in a meeting today.

Commercial space for use as a restaurant, shop and takeaway is also part of the plan.

Councillors are also expected to approve the demolition of Grange's Age UK building to be replaced by a Spar convenience store and filling station.

The Greater Manchester-based Lancet Homes is behind both the housing developments.

Nine of the homes will be affordable housing, with five for social rent and four shared ownership.

Members of Grange Town Council have objected to the housing plans, concerned about flooding and speed restrictions , while 43 residents are also against the plan.

Among the objections are concerns it will mean the loss of 'Kents Bank village as a distinct settlement and it will create an urban area with the coalescence of three settlements – Grange, Kents Bank and Allithwaite'.

Another concern is that the project 'will result in the loss of the only remaining green space in the village'.

SLDC's planning officers have recommended the plan for approval.

Officers say the development it will provide facilities for the elderly, with the town 'in significant need for additional specialist housing'.

Plans for the Age UK building in Lindale Road were recommended by Grange Town Council.

Proposals say the petrol station will have six pumps and 19 parking spaces.

According to SLDC, 24 people have written to the council either objecting to the plan or expressing concerns.

They are said to be concerned about flood risk, disturbance and pedestrian safety near the site.

Planning documents said: "The proposal is for the demolition of the existing buildings on the site and the erection of a convenience store, a petrol filling station (including canopy) with six pumps, underground fuel tanks and 19 car parking spaces. "The convenience store will have a net floorspace of 278 sq. m. (682 sq. m. gross) and will trade as a SPAR."