Issue - meetings

The proposal had been presented to the Quality Review Panel in May to broad support subject to the provision of further architectural details and plans for the relocation of the access road.

·         The applicant’s early intentions in relation to affordable housing provision were questions within the context of the Council’s 50% target. The applicant advised that the viability assessment was at early stage and would need to factor in the cost of providing a new central access road to the site but that hopefully affordable housing and affordable rent workspace would be provided onsite.

·         Some concern was raised over the scheme design including its height within the context of largely two storey surrounding properties and the view that some of the architectural design features were akin to those of a multi-storey car park.

·         Confirmation was provided by the applicant that screening would be used to mitigate any overlooking caused by the differing ground levels between the proposed communal garden and adjacent Lido Square properties. 

·         The applicant outlined that the intention behind the new access road was to improve the streetscene and enhance the potential for extending redevelopment to the rear of the site which was currently occupied by a Council depot.

The Committee recommended to the applicant that invites to the planned onsite open day be extended to local ward councillors. A new Development Management Forum would also be scheduled for the application. It was anticipated that the application would come before the Committee for determination in October.