BCP Cabinet will consider an acquisition strategy for the former power station site in Holes Bay, Poole.
Cabinet members will consider a report on Friday, outlining the proposed strategy to bring the former Poole power station site into public ownership
The Brownfield site provides a significant regeneration opportunity to provide more housing and a new community in Poole. It has remained untouched since the authority allocated the site for development over 20 years ago.
In the Poole local plan, the site is allocated to bring forward 850 new homes. This is significant in supporting the Council’s increased housing delivery levels of around 2,600 new homes each year.
In 2015, the council successfully applied for the land to be designated as a Government Housing Zone. Furthermore, in 2017, a £5 million Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership’s grant funding for infrastructure was provided.
Kate Ryan, Corporate Director of Environment and Community, BCP Council, said: “the most recent planning application has stalled and despite efforts from the Government, Homes England and the Council, the landowners have confirmed that they will not be proceeding with the £5 million funding agreement with the Council and DLEP to deliver the infrastructure works.
“As a result it is now prudent for the council to consider an alternative approach to secure the funding and bring this site forward for development.
Poole power station in 1993, copyright Chris Downer
Poole power station after the two chimneys were demolished in 1993, copyright Chris Downer
“Therefore, council members will be asked to approve £150,000 Homes England capacity funding allocated so that this site can be used to support the development of an acquisition strategy.
Cllr Kieron Wilson, Cabinet Member for Housing, BCP Council, said: “The delivery of housing on this site is a key priority for the Council.
“Bringing this major brownfield site into public ownership would enable us to provide sustainable good quality homes much sooner thereby supporting the wider plans to revitalise Poole Town Centre.”
If Cabinet members approve the strategy, it will be presented to the Council later in the year.
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