Town centre flats plan can't go ahead over noise concerns

Proposals to convert the empty upper floors of 2 Old Christchurch Road, above the iCrack phone repair shop, have been rejected. 

Previously office space, developers were hoping prior approval would be given to convert the Art Deco building into four new flats. 

But BCP Council’s planning department said the developer Mr M Shahzad had “failed to demonstrate that the noise produced by surrounding commercial sources in the area would not impact the occupants of the proposed flats”. 

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Buses in Gervis Place (Image: Daily Echo)

A case officer report said: “This development is located in the centre of town with windows overlooking the high street on one side and Gervis Place on the other, providing the main bus stops serving Bournemouth town centre. 

“Considering the location of the development it is reasonably foreseeable that noise levels will be high throughout the daytime, evening and into the early hours of the morning, especially during the weekends when a larger number of people will be visiting the area. 

Read more: New Bournemouth town centre flats can't be moved into

“Therefore, we have concerns that noise from surrounding sources, including music noise from nearby late night venues and noise from revellers visiting those premises during the evening, early hours of the morning, idling bus engines, buses arriving/departing regularly and regular events held in the Lower Gardens could adversely impact the future occupants of these properties.” 

The case officer went on to say idling buses waiting at the stops would also cause disruption to people’s sleep. 

Halo closed earlier this year (Image: NQ staff)

The report also expressed concern nightclub Halo, which closed earlier this year, would add to the noise to future residents. 

Elsewhere up the road, also facing the bus stops at Gervis Place, student accommodation comprising 129 rooms in the old House of Fraser building has been given approval, with work already starting. 

“The property has Crittall style windows and it is not clear what noise insulation they offer,” the report added regarding the application. 

“Upgrades that alter the appearance of the property may require separate planning consent and would need to preserve the character and appearance of the conservation area.”