THERE is a will to begin the early stages of work to redevelop the former power station site at Holes Bay “as soon as possible”, according to BCP Council’s cabinet member for regeneration.
Councillor Mark Howell said “some public realm and infrastructure works” could take place before final plans for the land had been drawn-up should its purchase be finally agreed.
The council’s cabinet gave its backing to buying the site, which is expected to be able to accommodate in excess of 800 homes, when it met at the end of last month.
However, a deal to buy the site from its owners London and Quadrant and Land Improvement Holdings can not be completed until it is given the approval of the full council.
It will be asked to approve the purchase when it meets tomorrow (Tuesday).
Hamworthy ward councillor Mike White has urged the council to be more ambitious than a stated aim of starting early preparatory work on the site in “2021/22”.
In response, Cllr Howell said the he was “keen” to move the project forward “as soon as possible”.
“There may be some public realm and infrastructure works that can be undertaken at an early stage,” he said. “Indeed, early development of public realm would help bring the site to the attention of more people and have a positive impact on future sales values.
“However, we need to be confident that any works ahead of agreeing a full masterplan will not impact on the eventual layout and design.”
He said council officers were looking at the already approved plans for the repair of the quay wall and promenade to see what level of development it would be able to accommodate for the land.
Arrangements have been made for the site to be bought by the council – a move prompted by concerns that the financial viability of any development had stalled any work being carried out.
Cllr Howell said he hoped the council would be able to create a “vibrant and connected community”.
Final approval of the purchase will be sought from the full council at its meeting tomorrow evening.
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