Plans approved for Christchurch Sailing Club viewing platform

Christchurch Sailing Club has had an application approved to build the viewing area at its Club House, adjacent to Priory Quay.

The proposal is for a new platform at roof level, looking out over the river Stour, as well as a new external staircase to access to it from the terrace that exists on the first floor.

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The club says it would allow a better view of training and events taking place on the river.

Proposed visualisation (Image: Aspire Architects)

A design and access statement submitted to BCP Council reads: “The viewing platform acts primarily as a safety look out towards the steep banks area, which is not so visible from the lower levels, but has proved a problem in the past with junior sailors being caught out by the strong current and unable to get back to the club slipway.

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“The new viewing platform will allow members of the sailing club to watch training and events on the river, enhancing safety on the water, and the member experience generally, whilst utilising the existing site and layout.”

The application received 13 letters of objection from neighbours, who raised concerns including the impact an overlooking balcony could have on their privacy, the "out of keeping" appearance of the development, and whether it would increase road use and parking in the area.

Many were also worried that the club may also use the viewing platform for social dining and drinking, especially during the summer months.

The planning committee gave approval for the development with a number of conditions.

These include a ban on playing live or recorded music on the viewing platform.

There must be no customers on the viewing platform outside the hours of 7am-10.30pm on Mondays to Saturdays and 7am-10pm on Sundays and bank holidays, the conditions say.