Plans to develop Newfoundland House on Poole Quay refused

Applicant LA Poole Limited sought permission to carry out the scheme at Grade II listed Newfoundland House.

The site is currently occupied by Da Vinci's Italian restaurant at ground floor and first floor levels, with residential units on the second, third and fourth floor levels.

The proposed scheme would have seen internal alterations to ground floor kitchen and toilets, conversion of first floor to four self-contained flats and external alterations to side elevations to re-introduce the previously blocked up windows.

CGI of one of the proposed first floor flats. Picture: Asplan

A response from the Poole Quays Forum group was supportive of the principle of the development but raised concerns over the poor quality living conditions of the prospective occupiers of the proposed flats.

A design and access statement submitted on behalf of the applicant by Pure Town Planning said: "All flats would be appropriate for occupation by couples or families, and the amount of development proposed for the site strikes a balance of meeting its development potential whilst ensuring a high level of amenity for future occupants and existing residents."

The application was refused by an officer in BCP Council's planning department.

CGI of one of the proposed first floor flats. Picture: Asplan

While planning officer Monika Kwiatkowska noted the additional flats would see a modest contribution to the 499-dwelling shortfall in homes and the refurbishment would deliver economic benefits, the proposal would cause harm to the designated heritage assets.

"Additionally, the proposal would not be policy compliant in terms of the living conditions for the prospective occupiers," her report said.