Plans to build more than 200 new flats in the centre of Bournemouth have been approved by Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council’s Planning Committee.
The 211 homes will be available to rent alongside new commercial facilities and retail space on land next to the Richmond Gardens multi-storey car park in the town.
The Build-to-Rent scheme, which will also include landscaping improvements, will comprise four blocks ranging in height up to 12 storeys.
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The London-based property development firms behind the proposals, Summix and Evolve Estates, said the site would provide different housing sizes for young professionals and families.
Stuart Black, development director for Summix Capital, said that the development was expected to support more than 370 jobs during construction and in the wider supply chain, and it presented an opportunity to “revitalise” the town centre.
Mr Black said: “We’re pleased our proposals to redevelop the Richmond Gardens site with much-needed new homes have been approved by BCP Council.
“Build-to-rent accommodation is ideally suited to this site given its town centre location and close proximity to a range of employers, helping to meet an identified need for new homes in Bournemouth.”
Danny O’Keefe, a partner at Evolve Estates, added: “We are delighted to deliver this consent alongside our partners Summix, helping to add more diversity and community to the town centre of Bournemouth. Such consents are excellent ways to help improve high streets in an increasingly challenging climate.”
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Summix and Evolve Estates were previously granted permission for a 625-bed student accommodation scheme on the site last year.
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This was initially refused by Bournemouth Borough Council in March 2019 (prior to the merger with Christchurch and Poole local authorities) due to concerns about scale and massing, design, public realm and car parking.
However, the decision was subsequently overturned at appeal and the scheme was approved by the Planning Inspectorate in February 2020.
The newly approved build-to-rent plans will not feature student accommodation, meaning permission has been granted for one of the two schemes to be built on the site.
Spaces for local businesses and around 360 cycle spaces are included in the newly approved plans, as well as club parking to encourage sustainable travel.