UPDATED plans have been submitted for the redevelopment of the former police station and courts site in Christchurch.

Aster Group has lodged the proposals for the Bargates and Barrack Road site with BCP Council.

The scheme comprises 170 new homes and flats, landscaping and commercial or community floor space.

An Aster spokesman said: "We are thrilled with the updated plans as we strongly believe they represent an even better proposal for this key town-centre site.

"We have worked very hard to incorporate the constructive feedback we have received throughout the process and we would like to thank everyone involved for their input.

"The result is a comprehensive proposal that meets all policy requirements and represents a well-balanced mix of family and sheltered housing, open space and space for retail or community uses. "This high-quality development will contribute to solving the increasing housing need in Christchurch whilst enhancing the vibrancy of the town centre.”

The updated plans follow a public consultation exercise, Aster say, which took place over the course of a year.

Significant changes were also made to the scheme in December, last year, months after a consultation with the public and key members of the community.

Changes to the latest proposals for the site include crossing proposals for Barrack Road, the widening of the footpath adjacent to the site along Barrack Road and provision for a new bus stop.

There will also be planting and landscaping to the proposed link between Barrack Road and Bargates, creating a through route for pedestrians and cyclists, but not for motor vehicles.

However, Aster say alterations could be made in the future if a vehicular route was deemed necessary.

Other design changes in the latest proposals include the addition of balconies to some of the flats.

The updated plans and supporting documents can be found at BCP Council’s website. The planning application references are 8/18/3263/FUL and 8/18/3264/DCONS.

There are two references because of the conservation area that some of the site is located in.

Comments can be made until 21 November 2019.