A controversial plan to build 60 new care homes in Catford has been given planning permission, despite protests from residents.

Lewisham Council approved plans to build 60 extra care homes in a development next to Hazelhurst Court in Catford on Thursday (January 15).

Residents of Hazelhurst Court have complained that the green space is essential for disabled residents who are not able to walk further than the green space.

Hazelhurst Court resident, Frank Scott, said: "Why build 60 flats on a lovely green landscape with wildlife when I'm sure somewhere in the Lewisham area you could build 200."

Mr Scott attended the planning meeting and has accused councillors of ignoring his complaints and has accused developers, Phoenix Homes, of ignoring the wishes of residents and not maintaining their existing block properly.

He added: "They've got no respect for the elderly and they don't care.

"Most of the people living here have worked all their lives, why should they be prisoners in their own home? Because that's what they will be."

Phoenix have said the development will benefit generations of older people in Lewisham.

They have also said that the extra accommodation will offer a range of community facilities for residents in the area.

Phoenix's chief executive, Jim Ripley, said: "We know there are many older people in our borough - including Phoenix tenants - who are living in homes that don't really meet their needs.

"This new 60-home development will enable more people to enjoy the later stages of their lives in secure and comfortable surroundings where they know care is at hand if needed."

Community facilities at the new development will include a catering kitchen and dining area, reception and staff facilities, garden room, facility room, assisted bathing facilities, large communal lounge and shared courtyard.

Residents at the new development will also be able to have meals delivered to them by an on-site catering team each day and have access to an emergency call system and the internet.

The extra homes were made possible by funding from the Mayor of London and Lewisham Council.