New purpose built student accommodation approved in Bournemouth

Posted by Pure Town Planning on 16th December 2019 -

BCP Council (Bournemouth): Pure Town Planning director Darryl Howells has secured full planning permission for creation of a student accommodation complex (sui-generis use) in the form of a new 3 / 4 storey block in the rear courtyard, a first floor extension and conversion of the first floor above existing retail units totalling 22 student units.

The client originally instructed RLM Architects in Wimborne to prepare the plans, but requested the services of Pure Town Planning to submit a pre-application and subsequent planning submission. 

A pre-application query was submitted and considered by the Council and the response received was generally supportive of the principle however issues of scale, form, lack of car parking and impact to neighbouring amenities were highlighted as areas of concern. 

Prior to the submission Darryl met with the architects to agree design changes that sought to resolve many of the initial concerns. The planning application was submitted by Darryl, with his usual comprehensive planning statement justifying the scheme in planning policy terms. 

During the course of the planning application, subtle design changes were needed, however the main area of disagreement between Darryl and the Council related to the lack of on-site car parking. Darryl strongly advocated that the proposed use being for students was sui generis and not housing (Use Class C3) so lent itself to being a car-free scheme. Amendments to the layout of the student units was undertaken, and following negotiation with the planning officer, Darryl’s position was finally agreed.

Pure Town Planning are pleased to be able to secure full planning permission for this major development as its delivery will positively contribute to the student accommodation stock with in the area, contribute to significant economic growth to local shops and makes an efficient and creative of an underused site in a sustainable location. 

If you have a complex proposal which you would like guided through the process to give you the best chance of success, get in touch with Pure Town Planning to find out how we might be able to assist.