PLANS to redevelop a former candle factory site in Christchurch town centre have been given the go-ahead.
A planning application to build a one-and-a-half-storey development at the old candle factory site in Bank Close has been approved.
Two existing buildings are set to be demolished under the plans by Burch Properties Limited.
The proposed replacement building is described as a ‘residential home’ of four beds, two with ensuites, plus a first-floor bathroom and ground-floor WC room.
The Bank Close site is known by many residents as the former candle factory, but the developers insist there is “no documentary or physical evidence to point towards the buildings notional use as a candle factory”.
They added that it had been used as a temporary store in the late 20th-early 21st century, and this is where the link to candles could’ve developed.
The existing buildings are both unoccupied but are said to have had ‘various uses’ over recent years, including as public convenience stores.
When the plot was first made available to buy, or let, in 2017, Christchurch Borough Council said it poses an opportunity at one of the 'gateways to the High Street'.
Speaking at the time, Ashley Harman, projects and estates manager at former Christchurch and East Dorset Councils, said: “This offers a great opportunity for someone looking for a property in a prime town centre location. Subject to planning permission, the site could be used for a range of ventures.”
A planning report, which recommended the latest scheme for approval, said: “The council encourages sustainable development. This seeks to strike a balance between the economic benefit of the development, the environmental impacts and the social benefits derived by the creation of much-needed housing.
"The proposal would provide for one property of a suitable size within a sustainable area, and it is considered the design and layout is acceptable and would not harm the visual amenities of the area.
"The access arrangements are acceptable, and the biodiversity interests of the site can be protected and enhanced."
It added there were “no identified harms” that would outweigh the “benefits of the development”.
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