COUNCILLORS will be asked to approve plans to build an 11-storey block of flats in the centre of Poole next week.

Poole Property Investments has applied for permission to demolish and replace the buildings off the eastern edge of The George roundabout for more than 100 apartments and commercial space.

And BCP Council’s planning committee has been recommended to approve the scheme ahead of its meeting next week to help make up its shortfall in new homes.

The planning application was submitted in 2018 and originally proposed the construction of 225 flats on the site behind the Dolphin Shopping Centre.

But this was scaled back last year after concerns were raised about the scale of the new building.

If approved, the amended plans would allow for the existing buildings to be demolished and replaced by a block which reaches 11 storeys in height at its highest.

Most of the flats would be either one- or two-bedroom and nine commercial units would be created on the ground floor. None of the flats would be 'affordable'.

“The proposal is for the provision of high quality apartments in a residential-led development of the George Roundabout, at the gateway to the town centre,” a statement submitted with the planning application says.

“With a trend towards urban living, in the town or city centres, this scheme will bring residents to the town centre and increase vitality and quality of life.”

Although there have only been a handful of objections filed by the public, fears have been raised by the Theatres Trust due to the potential impact on the neighbouring Lighthouse.

Concerns have also been raised by Dorset Police and The Society for Poole over the provision of only 66 parking spaces.

However, Go South Coast, which operates Morebus said it was an “over-provision” given its proximity to Poole Bus Station.

In a report published ahead of Thursday’s meeting of the council’s planning committee, planning officer Eleanor Godesar said the arrangement was acceptable and that the scheme should be approved.

“Given the shortfall of number of homes delivered in Poole, the balance is tilted in favour of sustainable development and granting planning permission,” her report says.

“The council encourages sustainable development. This seeks to strike a balance between the economic benefits of new housing with any potential environmental impacts that result from the residential redevelopment and the social benefits derived by the creation of much needed housing.”

A final decision will be made by councillors when they meet on Thursday.