Ashley Heath, on behalf of Henley Developments, had applied to build the four-storey complex on the site of the Furnishing Centre in Victoria Street in May of last year. However, it was refused in October after receiving 12 objections from members of the public, along with objections from the parish, historic environment team and the Growth, Housing and Environment Department.
Among some of the concerns raised was the impact of the ‘dominant structure’ on the setting of nearby listed buildings.
It was also feared that some of those living in the planned complex would be able to look through windows and into gardens of nearby properties.
Meanwhile, the parish complained that there was an insufficient number of parking spaces available and that the proposed car park entrance could cause conflict between cars and vulnerable road users. According to the planning register, Henley Developments, who own the site, subsequently appealed against the decision. But the committee decided to uphold the Planning Department’s findings and not grant permission for the development to go ahead.
