PROPOSALS to replace a block of flats in Canford Cliffs for a new development with more than three times the number of living units have been approved.
Despite originally being earmarked by BCP Council as ideal for an assisted living development, developers have been given the green light to turn Carisbrooke in Canford Cliffs Road into a modern block of 59 apartments.
The 1960’s-built block of 17 flats was described by planners Chapman Lily as “dated” in their planning statement – which also said how the new proposed building would bring “elegance and attractiveness” to the area.
In mid-2019, retirement property specialist McCarthy Stone said it had “acquired an interest” in the flats in Canford Cliffs.
The Bournemouth-based firm met with residents to get them on side ahead of drawing up plans for a retirement complex on site.
However, by November last year, these plans were abandoned and developer Alistair Collier submitted new plans for an eight storey block of 59 two-and-three bed flats.
A spokesperson for McCarthy Stone said: “McCarthy Stone no longer has an interest in the site and subsequently has had no involvement in any recent planning applications relating to the site’s redevelopment.”
BCP Council approved the latest plans for solely residential use in August, for which 12 objections were submitted by residents concerned about the scale of the development. Christine Kennedy said: “To change from 17 to 59 flats seems excessive in the extreme.”
The development would allow for a total of 71 parking spaces in the basement, all of which would have electric charging available. Furthermore, 138 cycle parking spaces are planned.
Council case officer Hannah Wild said in her report: “The additional height of the development is considered appropriate for the area.
“The development reaches eight-storeys in height (accounting for the basement parking level) and is considered to fit in with the height within the area.
“The design of the building is considered to be acceptable and an improvement over the existing appearance of the site. The proposal will not cause material harm to the amenities and privacy of the occupants of neighbouring properties.”
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