PLANS have submitted for a “landmark development” of four blocks of flats on a Bournemouth car park.

An application has been tabled for 27 new homes on Southbourne Cross Roads car park.

Vivir Estates Ltd, described as a “young company” in application documents, also want to make use of areas of planted gardens at both ends of the car park to deliver flats, which would have unobstructed views of the sea.

A planning, design and access statement by David James Architects & Partners Ltd on behalf of the applicant says: “There exists a fantastic opportunity for the application site to accommodate a new landmark development to address Southbourne Cross, which would compliment and enhance the evolving area of Southbourne, as well as the immediate street scene, and provide much need housing stock to the area.”

Bournemouth Echo: Indicative CGI aerial view of the flats planned for Southbourne Cross Roads car park. Picture: David James Architects

The plans, if approved, would provide 24 two-bed and three one-bed flats across blocks up to four-storeys tall.

The existing car park has 75 spaces. The application proposes 29 spaces for residents in the form of undercroft car parking – underneath the housing.

David James Architects’ statement says the scheme presents no highways issues and no overlooking or overbearing concerns.

“The proposed buildings sit comfortably within the plot and are of a scale that are subservient to its surroundings,” the statement adds.

Bournemouth Echo: Southbourn Cross Roads car park which is where four blocks of flats could be built. Picture by Greg Luckhurst, Bournemouth Daily Echo.

“The designs are in keeping and respect the character of Southbourne Coast Road, as well as the wide context and character of the area.

“It is considered that the proposed buildings are well designed and utilise quality materials, and will be exciting and well conceived additions to the area.”

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The plans have been submitted to BCP Council’s planning department and had initially been listed as being subject to a delegated officer decision, however this has since changed to confirm it will be a committee decision.

Residents have until June 4 to put forward their comments about the scheme.

Bournemouth Echo: Southbourn Cross Roads car park which is where four blocks of flats could be built. Picture by Greg Luckhurst, Bournemouth Daily Echo.

A BCP Council spokesman said: “The decision to dispose of this former car park was taken by former Bournemouth council in 2017 as it was surplus to requirements.

“The site was placed on the market for sale by way of long lease.

“Due to a number of factors the transaction was delayed but negotiations are now concluded to lease the property to a private developer for the redevelopment of the site for housing.

“As part of those discussions the developer has now submitted a planning application.

“The lease of the land will generate a capital receipt for the council, which can be used to further future capital programmes.”

The former Bournemouth council closed several car parks across the town as part of a partnership with Morgan Sindall as part of the Bournemouth Development Company.

Last month, BCP Council began an independent review of the BDC and how it fits in with current aims.