Regeneration scheme gets the green light in Christchurch

Housing association Aster Group has obtained full planning consent for its mixed use regeneration scheme in Christchurch town centre. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s planning committee followed its officers’ recommendation and supported the proposals, which will deliver flexible community space and 169 much needed homes for Christchurch, 53 of which will be affordable.

Aster has consulted closely with a wide range of consultees and has tirelessly considered the mix of housing that would best serve the town. The development includes one, two, three and four-bedroom homes, well suited for young families, first-time buyers and people who are looking to downsize. The retirement housing will provide 39 units of sheltered accommodation for elderly people. The affordable housing will deliver homes for affordable rent, shared ownership and discounted or starter homes.

Aster’s senior development manager (strategic), Lindsey Aldington said: “This is fantastic news for the many local people who have been struggling to find a suitable home in Christchurch. We have worked hard to ensure this much-needed project provides what local people are looking for in a home; close to local amenities, bus stops and the railway station. We are thrilled that BCP Councillors have given it the green light.”

The development will be delivered in phases. Aster will now start construction preparations.

ENDS

Notes to editors

About the development:

• 169 new homes in total: 130 new houses in a range of different home types and tenures, including affordable homes, such as discount/starter homes, and homes for affordable rent and shared ownership and 39 units of sheltered accommodation
• 612 m2 of flexible commercial/community space facing Fountain Roundabout: whereas ‘retail’ use is current policy which Aster has to adhere to, Aster has agreed with the Council to widen its possible use to include ‘community space’, opening a range of new opportunities such as a new location for the much-loved science museum and/or a community hub, uses that local community organisations have expressed an interest in
• an ecological buffer zone of up to 14m wide between the back gardens of Twynham Avenue and the western side of the proposed development site
• a new road connecting Bargates and Barrack Road – initially for pedestrians and cyclists only
• new private and semi-private gardens
• public open space
• hard and soft landscaping
• surface vehicular parking and residential garages