A LEGAL challenge has been launched over BCP Council’s decision to approve plans to transform the police station site in Christchurch.
The scheme to transform the boarded up site in Barrack Road was given the go-ahead by BCP Council in 2020.
The redevelopment includes the disused police station in the centre of Christchurch as well as the magistrates’ court site.
Plans from Aster Homes included 130 homes built alongside sheltered accommodation and community facilities.
Read more: Homes plan for Christchurch police station site approved
Legal issues saw an initial decision scrapped in February 2020 when a judicial review pre-action protocol letter warned it had been “unlawful”.
The letter cited non-compliance with biodiversity policies, incorrect advice on the effects of the planned “ecological corridor” and that living space standards for the proposed homes had not been considered.
The site remains boarded up more than two years after the plans were given the go-ahead.
Now, a spokesperson for Aster has confirmed a legal challenge has been received by BCP Council over its approval.
It is believed the challenge has been brought by a resident, rather than a group of people.
Read more: Christchurch Police Station development expected to start soon
“A legal challenge has been received by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council against its decision to grant planning permission,” said the spokesperson for Aster Group.
"We remain committed to transforming the site, which will include a significant number of affordable homes for local families that need them.
“As well as providing much needed affordable housing, the sale of the site will also unlock crucial funds for one of the current site owners, the Christchurch Magdalen Trust, a Christchurch charity which is helping many Christchurch people through its Emergency Assistance Scheme and who are struggling as a result of the pandemic.”
A council spokesperson said: “We are awaiting the decision of a legal challenge to the proposed redevelopment of the old Christchurch police station and cannot comment further at this time. The application was considered by the planning committee who approved the scheme.
“The development will redevelop a long vacant key town centre site, delivering 169 much needed dwellings, including 53 affordable housing units and commercial space in a high quality scheme with significant economic benefits for the area.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel