Plans for 40 flats in Poole High Street going to committee

Having received more than 50 objections by residents, councillors and heritage groups, plans submitted by Shore Holdings to redevelop 13-15 High Street with new flats and commercial units will be decided at a BCP Council planning committee meeting on October 4.

The plans, which will “inject new life” into the site according to planners, were adapted from initially submitted proposals for more flats. However, these plans were ultimately scaled down following feedback from various consultees.

The existing buildings, which date from the mid to late 19th century, are locally listed. This means if the plans are given the go-ahead and the buildings are partly demolished, the facades will be retained but enhanced.

13-15 Poole High Street. Picture: Google (Image: Google)

15 High Street is currently an empty space, having previously been occupied by a mid-Victorian town house demolished in 1976.

Standing at between three and four storeys, planners Chapman Lily Planning say the proposed development “presents an excellent opportunity to provide an enhancement through building a high-quality, mixed-use development that better links with the conservation area’s history”.

There is provision for 29 one-bedroom apartments and 11 two-bedroom apartments. However, the site will offer no car parking spaces – instead providing two bike store areas with the capacity for more than 100 bikes. There is also no provision for affordable housing.

Primary reasons for objection centred on the lack of parking – described by one resident as “absolutely ridiculous”, preserving the area’s heritage, overdevelopment, and affordability.

CGI of proposed plans for 40 apartments and commercial space at 13-15 Poole High Street (Image: Shore Holdings Ltd)

Despite this, BCP Council’s planning case officer has recommended the plans for approval before it goes to committee having cited several benefits.

Regarding parking, the officer said: “The location of the development is well connected and in a sustainable location, therefore residents should be able to access all amenities on foot, bike or public transport.”

Economic benefit was also mentioned, with the applicant having already established a business to operate from the eventual commercial space.

Chapman Lily Planning added: “The proposal exhibits an innovative and high-quality design that respects and enhances the character of the surrounding area. It would deliver much needed homes in a highly accessible location, supporting the ongoing regeneration and revitalisation of the town centre.”