Aster unveils improved plans for the police station site in Christchurch

Comprehensive set of updates submitted to Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole Council

Aster Group has submitted updated plans for the redevelopment of the former police station and magistrates’ court site off Bargates and Barrack Road in Christchurch to Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole Council. The plans, which comprise 170 new homes and flats, extensive landscaping as well as commercial or community floor space for Christchurch, have evolved and improved in response to consultation undertaken over the course of a year.

A spokesperson for Aster said: “We are thrilled with the updated plans as we strongly believe they represent an even better proposal for this key town-centre site. We have worked very hard to incorporate the constructive feedback we have received throughout the process and we would like to thank everyone involved for their input. The result is a comprehensive proposal that meets all policy requirements and represents a well-balanced mix of family and sheltered housing, open space and space for retail or community uses. This high-quality development will contribute to solving the increasing housing need in Christchurch whilst enhancing the vibrancy of the town centre.”

Improvements include; amendments to the safe crossing proposals for Barrack Road and widening of the Barrack Road footpath adjacent to the site, along with provision for a new bus stop to encourage the use of public transport.

The introduction of planting and hard landscaping to the proposed link between Barrack Road and Bargates creating a through route for pedestrians and cyclists, but not vehicular. Alterations could be made in the future were a vehicular route require. Improvements to car parking for residents and visitors have been made. Other design enhancements include balconies to some of the flats and elements of Flemish bond, in keeping with local architecture.

The updated plans and supporting documents can be found at BCP Council’s website, please click here. The planning application references are 8/18/3263/FUL and 8/18/3264/DCONS. There are two references because of the conservation area that some of the site is located in. Comments can be made until 21 November 2019.