A MAJOR refurbishment and redevelopment of two next-door buildings along the Esplanade and Commercial Street – which includes a ‘living wall’ – has been approved, subject to legally binding planning conditions being met.
The adjoining buildings, which line both streets, are currently five storeys but the approved application includes the construction of a sixth floor.
On the Esplanade side, one is a modern, glazed office while next door has a granite facade, including a listed warehouse frontage at the back.
The application states that the wall would create new habitats for insects and pollinators, improve air quality, reduce noise, retain rainwater, and provide “psychological and wellbeing benefits through visible greenery in the public realm”.
In recommending approval, the Planning officer states: “The development would result in the extension of two existing buildings, through the provision of additional sixth stories, as well as the construction of respective ‘active’ elevations to both the Esplanade and Commercial Street.
“Such undertakings would result in a number of planning gains including design contributions to the existing streetscape, additional office accommodation in town and active travel provisions through the agreement of a Planning Obligation Agreement.”
The conditions attached to the approval include submitting a plan to maintain and manage the green wall and planters, a bike store and cycle spaces are installed, and the applicant contributes £27,568 towards the Eastern Cycle Route Network.
