A THIRD set of plans have been submitted to build a five-storey block of flats along with six commercial units in ‘a run-down backwater’ of Bournemouth town centre.

Bournemouth council has twice approved applications to demolish the Victoria Drill Hall and to build a five-storey building in its place.

However, new proposals have now been lodged, seeking permission to add an extra basement level to increase the number of parking spaces and flats in the block.

The first scheme – for nine business units and 34 flats – was approved by the council in 2015 while last year revised proposals adding an extra apartment and removing one commercial space was also backed.

Now a third application has been submitted, seeking permission to add an extra basement floor to the already-approved scheme.

A planning statement submitted with the application says: “The previous planning consents on the site have already established the proposed mix of uses to be acceptable in principle.

“While the earlier outline consent remains extant and could be implemented, this application merely seeks to enhance the quality of accommodation by providing more of the units’ access to the lifts and through additional underground parking provision.”

Following a viability assessment, none of the flats would be classed as affordable housing.

As part of the proposed scheme, six commercial units would be developed, aimed at ‘fledgling businesses’.

Demolition of the existing drill hall off Lansdowne Lane is planned to make way for the new building which would be carried out by contractor Blumariin Limited.

The planning statement adds: “The proposal overall will represent a significant and positive investment in a run-down backwater of the town centre and will deliver homes and businesses in a manner that will also significantly improve the appearance, vitality and status of the area.

“Instead of being a neglected and intimidating environment, it will be a fresh and inviting area populated by dynamic fledgling businesses and residents.

“The proposals closely follow the overall scale and layout of development that has previously been approved on the site.

“The changes, comprising the addition of a second level of basement car parking and a glazed walkway to ensure a greater proportion of flats can be accessed by lifts, will both represent enhancements and would not lead to harm.”