PLANS for a major development opposite Poole Quay have been recommended for approval ahead of a council meeting next week.

If given the go-ahead by planning committee members, developers Atlas Partners will transform the Sydenhams Timber Yard site, building over 350 homes and a new marina with capacity for 23 vessels.

The £100m scheme was scaled back earlier this year following concerns over the size of the proposed development.

Residents have also expressed concerns that the tallest block would not be in keeping with the quayside buildings surrounding it.

They also fear that other large developments being built in the area will lead to more traffic exiting onto Blandford Road, leading to collisions.

The plans which will be laid before councillors on Thursday are for a seven block development ranging from three to 14 storeys. Spread across the blocks are 137 one-bedroom, 173 two-bedroom, and 43 three-bedroom flats.

More than 2,000sqm of flexible commercial floorspace is included in the scheme, along with an undercroft car park and service area with 345 car parking spaces.

Another feature of the proposed development is a new quayside walkway for pedestrians and cyclists, which will connect with developments at the former Pilkington’s Tiles and power station sites.

The landmark scheme also features a ‘creative quarter’ for independent retailers and businesses to open cafes, shops, restaurants, galleries, and workshops. Atlas Partners has already said it will maintain a “long-term interest” in the development to ensure the space remains attractive and accessible to start-up businesses.

Changes were made to the original plans, which featured 374 homes across eight blocks, to reduce the visual impact of the development when viewed from the quay and to reduce the scale of the blocks facing Blandford Road.

There are currently no affordable homes included in the plans, however a viability assessment has been carried out, the outcome of which will be reported to the planning committee.

Planning officer Clare Spiller said the proposal would bring “much needed homes to Poole” and provide better flood protection to the Lower Hamworthy area.

She added that approximately 70 jobs would be created with the new development.

“These benefits outweigh the limited harm to heritage assets and demonstrate the development is ‘sustainable development’,” she said.