[ad_1]
Plans for a major development on the site of Christchurch Police Station are being delayed due to ongoing legal issues.
The conversion of the former police station on Barrack Road has not yet started, although the project was approved more than two years ago.
According to the BCP Council, the current delay is the result of complex legal issues.
Property developer Aster Homes submitted plans in 2020 to redevelop the disused land, building 130 homes, a range of sheltered accommodation and commercial and community buildings.
The plans were approved in February 2020, but this decision was overturned when a resident said the plans were “illegal” and threatened legal action against the council.
Read more: Legal challenge over the location of the Otterday Police Station
The resident wrote a letter, alleging non-compliance with biodiversity policies, incorrect advice on the impacts of the planned “eco-route”, and the accommodation standards for the proposed homes.
In May 2022, the High Court upheld the council’s decision to approve the planning application, but the resident has appealed this decision.
A BCP Council spokesman said: “We have lodged an appeal against the court’s decision. We are currently awaiting the court’s decision as to whether the appeal will be accepted or rejected.”
The court ruled that the request for leave to appeal is currently with the judge and is awaiting a decision.
Aster could not comment on the legal issues, but told the Daily Echo they were “excited to start construction as soon as possible”.
Read more: Christchurch Police Station development to begin soon
A spokesman for the company said: “We are continuing to prepare for this complex project and look forward to commencing redevelopment as soon as possible, which will transform the site in the heart of Christchurch and provide affordable housing. for the region. .”
Speaking in February this year, Aster said they are “committed” to the development, and that they can provide “affordable housing for local families who need it.”
They also said the sale of the site would open up “significant funding” for one of the current owners, a city-based charity called the Christchurch Magdalen Trust.
[ad_2]
Source link
