A RETIREMENT village being built in Cradley, which left defeated objectors with a bitter taste, has been named Lime Gardens.

But the name, which may be a faux pas by housing and care group Midland Heart, is designed to honour the town’s lost generation killed in the First World War.

More than 200 people voted for the name at the scheme’s public launch event and refers to the lime trees which were planted in St Peter's Church graveyard for every townsman who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Lime Gardens will provide affordable quality housing for over 55s on the site of the former Cradley High School with 120 homes for rent and sale, extensive health and leisure facilities and 24-hour care and support for those who need it.

The £18 million complex is being developed in partnership with Dudley Council and is designed to promote independent living for Dudley’s over 55s, with communal leisure facilities including a shop, restaurant, library, gym and wellbeing facility which will form the focal point of the active community living there.

The controversial development led to a storm of protest from residents and the Friends of Homer Hill Park, over issues including cutting the park in half for an access road to the site, removal of tress, traffic congestion and lack of public consultation.

But Sarah Clee, head of older peoples’ services at Midland Heart said customer engagement formed a large part of their work and was “delighted” that future customers and neighbours have chosen the name.

Councillor Steve Waltho, cabinet member for housing, said: “We are very pleased with the name of this new development. It’s a great name which captures the area’s local history.”