LOCAL NEWS: Westbourne housing redevelopment proposed to meet local demand

Over 120 apartments are proposed in the redevelopment of the BCP Council-owned site at Princess Road in Westbourne.

The plans are intended to help meet the demand for more affordable homes in the area.

Councillors will consider the proposals at Cabinet on Friday 12 July. If approved, the scheme will be put forward for planning.

Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Kieron Wilson, said: “There is a significant demand for housing in the area and in particular, affordable housing.

“This scheme will contribute to that housing need, providing the opportunity for local residents to afford to buy their own home as well as providing much needed affordable rented and good quality, well managed emergency accommodation for families.”

The plans:

The Accommodation plans comprise of four blocks:

• Block A (6-storey) – 22 shared ownership apartments (5 x 1 bed, 15 x 2 bed, 2 x 3 bed)
• Block B (9 storey) – 24 affordable rented apartments (5 x 1 bed, 19 x 2 bed)
• Ground floor and first floor blocks B & C 20 bed – family hostel
• Block C (10 storey) – 41 affordable rented apartments (8 x 1 bed, 32 x 2 bed, 1 x 3 bed)
• Block D (7-storey) – 34 private rented apartments (7 x 1 bed, 24 x 2 bed, 3 x 3 bed)

Also included in the proposals are 101 dedicated parking spaces in the basement below blocks A-C, two storeys of parking under block D and some at ground level. 

Previously, the site contained nine detached and semi-detached properties of accommodation for approximately 60 people with complex needs.

129-131 Princess Road is now the only property remaining. Other properties have been demolished in readiness for development.

Public consultation with local residents and businesses took place early this year, where they were able to voice their opinions on the early draft proposals. 

Inadequate parking was among the common themes mentioned, which as a result was carefully considered and incorporated into the scheme. Impact on existing trees was also raised and the development has been designed so that the majority of trees remain.

If members agree to the scheme, a planning application will be submitted in the following months. 

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