PLANS to build offices and flats along a busy stretch of road have been halted.
An outline planning application for the scheme at 195 and 195A Barrack Road in Christchurch has been refused by BCP Council.
Volsen Holdings Ltd & Geejay Ltd sought outline permission to build a mixed-use four storey block, consisting of three offices and 25 apartments, and with associated bin and cycle stores.
The Trios pet shop and roofing company Volsen at 195 and 195A Barrack Road were to be demolished under the scheme to make space for the development.
The plans were first submitted in May 2022, but have since been amended in design by the developer to address concerns raised.
These included the building appearing bulky, some of the flats being single aspects and the practicality of the bin store.
A planning officer recommending the scheme for refusal noted recent changes that require developers in Christchurch to take measures to ensure the level of phosphates in the River Avon does not increase.
They said: “In this instance, no mitigation measures are currently proposed or in place to prevent the deterioration of the quality of the River Avon waters.”
The officer continued in their report: “In addition, the scheme fails to provide adequate mitigation for its cumulative impacts on protected heathlands.
“The scheme would fail to meet the requirements of Policy LN3 of the Local Plan in that is does not provide 40% affordable housing, or ensure any financial contribution in lieu of on site provision.
“The proposal would also fail to support, contribute towards, and enhance walking and public transport conditions in the immediate vicinity of the site.
“In conclusion, having recognised the collective harm arising from the development, it is concluded that the adverse impacts would not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the harm and therefore, the scheme would not achieve the economic, social and environmental objectives of sustainable development, contrary to the adopted local policies and the provisions of the NPPF, and should therefore be recommended for refusal.”
The outline planning application was refused by BCP Council on April 5.
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