A THIRTEEN-STOREY “landmark” residential development could be built on a former council depot in Bournemouth if new plans are approved.

Bayview Developments has submitted its planning application for the disused land between the A338 and Cambridge Road, having first revealed its intention to do so in 2019.

The firm’s managing director said there was a “clear need” for the 100 flats it would provide and that that it would also “ease pressure” on green belt sites.

The land, just off the Bournemouth West roundabout, previously housed Summerhayes Hotel and was later allocated by Bournemouth council for a new junction.

But this plan was abandoned and the land put up for sale, having been used for a temporary highways depot.

The site is one of 12 identified as having “potential for a new landmark of outstanding design and appropriate scale” in a 2015 council planning document.

However, A council report from the time said the site was “challenging” for it to redevelop itself, instead recommending its sale to a private developer.

And in 2019 Bayview Developments began progressing its plans for a 100-flat development.

It has now applied to BCP Council for permission for a single residential building of one- and two-bedroom flats.

The building would vary from four storeys at its lowest point to 13 at its highest.

“There is a clear need here in Bournemouth, and in towns and cities across the country, for high-quality homes in central locations,” the firm’s managing director, Bill Buckler, said. “We want to rejuvenate an under-utilised former council highways depot at what is a prominent gateway site.”

He said the scheme would create “highly attractive living accommodation” and “beautiful contemporary architecture.

“By rejuvenating this site, we can help ease pressure on the greenbelt while being a catalyst that enables people to enjoy town centre living in beautiful surroundings,” he added.

The developer said the homes would be aimed particularly at first-time buyers and young professionals but none would be provided at ‘affordable’ rates.

Concerns have already been raised by the council’s planning department about the size and height of the building but it said these could be overcome if a “strong and robust case” was put forward.

Having now validated the application, it will now consider the plans again before making a formal decision in the coming months.

Bayview Developments said work would start on the site “in the second half of 2021” should permission be granted and that the whole project would take about 18 months to complete.