DEVELOPER Sean Howard has announced plans for a $100 million dollar retirement and aged care facility at Kewarra Beach.

The proposal submitted to council by Mr Howard’s Arton Group would see 294 apartments, along with a 120-bed aged care facility, built on land by Cottesloe Dr.

This development would form part of a larger complex including Kewarra Beach Resort and a residential area which has been approved by council.

Arton managing director Graham Hooper said Mr Howard had a number of aged care operations across Australia and there was a clear need on the northern beaches.

"There is a need for aged care in Cairns and the northern beaches especially,’’ Mr Hooper said.

"That’s why we’ve already been granted a licence for 90 beds.’’

The apartments are aimed at those of retirement age who want to maintain an independent lifestyle, while the 120 beds will be for those in need of care.

"We’re hoping (aged care) residents will be able interact with people from different age groups, be they families with children or overseas guests.

"That should provide a high living standard.’’

Mr Hooper said they hoped to have the project approved in time to begin construction this winter.

A controversial point is likely to be height, with some sections of the complex proposed to be five storeys and in excess of planning scheme height stipulations.

The proposal to Council has been prepared by development consultants Conics.

The property is almost right on the divisional boundary between division 10 and division nine of the Cairns Regional Council. Combined Beaches Community Association president Fiona Tulip said so far there were no concerns big concerns about the proposed centre.

"I don’t see anything wrong with this proposal. I think this developer has a vision that is going to fit in with the master plan for community development,’’ Ms Tulip said.

"I haven’t heard anything negative.’’

In recent times Clifton Beach residents have vigorously defended their community values, fighting both a development by Glencorp and a proposal for a mobile telephone tower by Telstra that ended in the courts.

The project is described as ‘code-assessable’, meaning no formal public consultation period is required before council makes a decision.

Three informal information sessions have been organised, however, with one today between 1pm and 4pm at Kewarra Beach Resort.

Sean Howard also owns the expensive Double Island Resort.

He bought Kewarra Beach Resort in late 2007.

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