AN investigation into alleged breaches of planning permission at the controversial Cornfactor site has led to a new application addressing the issues.

In November, Christchurch council outlined two lines of enquiry it was investigating, including the overall height of the retirement complex and the height of the on-site café’s floor level and decking.

Developers Renaissance Retirement refuted the allegations, saying the development was built in accordance with the approved submitted drawings.

They said they planned to submit retrospective permission for the cafe decking.

Now, the council claims it has received an application for change of use for the tea room and hairdresser “to reflect the current use on site”.

Giles Moir, development management manager at Christchurch council, said: “Officers have also asked the developer to submit an application to seek permission for the decking.

“This will also include the change in ground level from the original plan which has necessitated the decking.

“While these applications have been requested, no view has been made on whether they will be supported. It is likely the change of use application will go to the Planning Committee in January and we await the other applications.”

A council spokesman said the initial concerns over the height of the building related to the change in the ground level, which on the original plans was level but now sloped down, increasing the distance from the ground to the roof.

Previously, managing director of Renaissance, Robert Taylor, said the Cornfactor development had been “designed and built exactly in accordance with the approved, submitted planning drawings to the council”.

Referring to the decking, he said the initial planning approval was for block paving up to the tea rooms and a slope.

“Being a local company, from our early designs for the development we have been conscious of the importance of this landmark building for Christchurch,” he added.