Travelodge proposed for Fleets Corner Business Park

Contractors are working at the Fleets Corner Business Park, where the demolition of unit G, the ancillary office accommodation known as Combustion House, unit K and the Test Rig, continues.

In recent days the demolition work has been apparent for all to see, having moved away from the test rig at the centre of the plot.

Plans have already been granted to redevelop the site, with the construction of five industrial units, totalling 8,806sqm, within two buildings.

A Starbucks Drive Thru franchise has also opened nearby, and plans have been submitted for an 81-bedroomed Travelodge.

BOP planning case officer Clair Moir, writing in a report to the council last year, said: “The proposals include units 1-4 which will occupy one building and be sited partly where unit G is being demolished.

“The units will have warehouse space at ground floor with mezzanine style ancillary office accommodation.

“To the front of the building is parking and a servicing area for each unit.

“The current application also includes unit 5, a large single unit to be located where unit K and the test rig are being demolished towards the eastern side of the site.”

Parts of the Waterloo Road buildings do contain asbestos, and the applicant – Britel Fund Trustees Limited – submitted a pre-demolition asbestos report, meeting all current safety regulations, to Borough of Poole before work to tear them down started.

A report explaining the demolition process, from council case officer Eleanor Godesar, said: “The demolition would be carried out in a controlled manner which mitigates against potential harm in terms of noise, dust and traffic movements to occupants at Fleets Corner, surrounding properties and roadways.

“Residences are at substantial distance from the site.”

All redevelopment is taking place within an existing employment site, with the proposed buildings located some distance from residential properties.

Ms Moir’s report suggested no significant harm would be caused to residential privacy and amenities during the redevelopment process.

She added: “Furthermore they are unlikely to have a detrimental impact on the operation and occupation of the surrounding industrial and office uses.”

The report continued: “The proposals comply with employment policies in respect of their use and would further enhance the site which is undergoing redevelopment and rationalisation, therefore delivering significant economic benefits.

“The improved environment around the estate would have environmental benefits and additional job opportunities, and would have economic and social benefits.”

The Travelodge proposed for Fleets Corner Business Park, is a five-storey building, complete with ancillary cafe/bar, meeting and function room space.

The hotel will primarily target the business community in the surrounding area.