A LEGAL challenge over the approval of major plans to transform the police station site in Christchurch town centre has been dismissed by a High Court judge.
BCP Council gave the green light to transform the boarded-up site in Barrack Road back in 2020.
The local authority scrapped its initial approval decision over a legal threat which claimed the verdict reached was “unlawful”.
Aster Group’s plans include 130 homes as well as sheltered accommodation properties and community facilities.
Resident Susan Sulliman launched a legal challenge against the council over the second planning approval.
- Read more: Homes plan for Christchurch Police Station site approved again
The case went before the High Court on May 4, with Honourable Mrs Justice Lang dismissing the application for a judicial review and refusing permission to appeal.
Following the planning court judgement, which was handed down on May 19, an Aster spokesperson said: “While we’re pleased the judge has upheld the planning committee’s decision to approve the planned redevelopment which will transform the site in central Christchurch, it would not be appropriate to comment any further at this time.”
Aster previously said it remained committed to the “long vacant key town centre site”.
The redevelopment plans include the demolition of the disused police station in the centre of Christchurch as well as the former magistrates’ court building.
Police operations in Christchurch are now based out of the fire station in Fairmile Road.
The scheme will provide a total of 169 homes, including 53 “affordable housing units”.
Councillor Philip Broadhead, BCP Council deputy leader and portfolio holder for development, growth and regeneration, said: “I am pleased to hear that the planning committee’s decision was upheld following the recent challenge submitted to High Court. This confirms that for this application, officers and our planning committee followed the correct process.
“Now this case has concluded, Aster Homes will hopefully be able to proceed with the redevelopment of this important town centre location and begin to deliver their ambitious plans.
“The site sits in the very centre of Christchurch and has remained vacant and disused for far too long. I look forward to seeing it brought back to life.’’
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