Plans to demolish and redevelop Dorset Lodge in Bournemouth

The existing building, located at 10 Suffolk Road, Bournemouth, would make way for a new development providing a mix of one and two-bedroom homes.

Plans submitted by BCHA, the charitable housing association, show the new block would comprise six one bedroom one person flats, 13 one bedroom two person flats and 13 two bedroom three person flats.

Founded in 1968, BCHA was set up by volunteers in Bournemouth aiming to tackle local housing problems.

The association currently manages more than 1,300 properties and supports thousands of people each year.

In its application BCHA said it remains committed to meeting housing need and ending homelessness by providing affordable, secure homes and support for people to live independently.

The organisation’s mission statement includes: “Whether we are developing sites or supporting people with housing or learning, we believe in equality, the importance of every individual and the right to be valued and treated with dignity and respect.

“Our doors are open to everyone.”

In supporting documents, BCHA describes the scheme as a “transformative investment in the future housing provision” for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area.

The application states: “The redevelopment of Dorset Lodge represents a transformative investment in the future housing provision within Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP).

“By replacing an existing building with an ambitious development, the proposal will significantly increase the number of homes delivered from the site and optimise the use of previously developed land within a highly sustainable urban location.

“The scheme forms a cornerstone of BCHA’s strategic growth plans and directly supports its objective of delivering 300 additional homes across its operating area.”

The development, it states, will contribute towards addressing local housing need, enhance the long-term sustainability of the association’s housing portfolio and deliver social and community benefits.

It adds: “The proposals demonstrate how carefully considered intensification can support both local planning objectives, and BCHA’s wider mission of ensuring that everyone has a home and the opportunity to thrive.”

Parking, access, landscaping and other associated works would be included in the new scheme.

A public consultation on the Dorset Lodge redevelopment is open until August 14 under planning application number P/26/03225/FUL.