A new retirement complex will be given a name that reflects the military history of the site on which it is to be built.

McCarthy Stone is building 41 new apartments in a Retirement Living development at Martlesham Heath after receiving planning consent for the project last year.

The company says the development off Eagle Way will be known as Squadron House.

The name recognises the location’s illustrious history as Martlesham Heath Airfield which operated between 1917 and 1963.

East Anglian Daily Times: A typical view of the kitchens at McCarthy Stone's Squadron House. Picture: McCarthy StoneA typical view of the kitchens at McCarthy Stone's Squadron House. Picture: McCarthy Stone (Image: McCarthy Stone)

RAF Martlesham Heath was used by Fighter Command during World War II, with well-known pilots including Douglas Bader based there.

It also played a key role in the development of Airborne Interception Radar, which aids night fighters and interceptors in locating and tracking other aircraft.

David Meacham, divisional sales and marketing director for McCarthy Stone, said: “The choice of Squadron House as a name for this development reflects the unique heritage of the site as a military base, and in particular its role in World War II.

"It will offer all the benefits of a rural location in terms of scenery and tranquillity, but with access to shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as convenient transport links to nearby towns, villages and the coast.

East Anglian Daily Times: The first flats should be available off-plan by the summer. PIcture: McCarthy Stone The first flats should be available off-plan by the summer. PIcture: McCarthy Stone (Image: McCarthy Stone)

“We’re already receiving a significant number of enquiries from people seeking to enjoy an independent retirement at Squadron House and would urge anyone else interested to get in touch as soon as possible.”

The scheme will feature 25 one-bedroom and 16 two-bedroom apartments for the over 60s and they will be available to reserve off-plan from late summer 2023.

Martlesham Parish Council and East Suffolk Council planners were concerned that the development would mean a loss of car parking in the village but McCarthy Stone has committed to provide a public car park as a "significant long-term asset for the village".

The replacement car park will be gifted to the parish council as soon as the development is complete.