PLANS for a major development at the Christchurch Police Station site are continuing to face delays due to ongoing legal issues.
The transformation of the former police station on Barrack Road has still not begun, despite the scheme being approved more than two years ago.
According to BCP Council, the most recent delay is the result of complex legal issues.
Property developer Aster Homes had submitted plans in 2020 to redevelop the disused land, building 130 homes, dozens of sheltered accommodation units and commercial and community facilities.
The plans were approved in February 2020, but this decision was scrapped when a resident claimed the plans were “unlawful”, threatening legal action against the council.
Read more: Legal challenge over Christchurch Police Station site
The resident had written a letter, citing 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.
In May 2022, the High Court confirmed the council’s decision to approve the planning application was lawful, but the resident has now applied to appeal this decision.
A BCP Council spokesperson said: “An appeal against the court’s decision has since been submitted. We are currently awaiting a decision from the court as to whether it will grant or refuse the appeal application.’’
The court confirmed the application for permission to appeal is currently with a judge and is awaiting determination.
Aster were unable to comment on the legal issues, but told the Daily Echo they were “excited to start construction soon”.
Read more: Christchurch Police Station development expected to start soon
A spokesperson for the company said: “We’re continuing to make preparations on this complex scheme and we look forward to starting as soon as possible on the redevelopment, which will transform the site in central Christchurch and provide much needed affordable housing for the area.”
Speaking in February this year, Aster said that they were “committed” to the development, which would providing a number of “affordable homes for local families that need them.”
They also said that the sale of the site would unlock “crucial funds” for one of the current site owners, a charity in the town called the Christchurch Magdalen Trust.
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