Dandara submit new plan for West’s Centre

Dandara submit new plan for West’s Centre

The company previously applied to build a similar development. However, it was turned down after the planning committee rejected it for not including any parking spaces.

Now, architects have incorporated 12 parking spaces and room for one electric car with a charging point, along with an area for 83 bicycles.

According to the design statement which accompanies the planning application, the office has remained unoccupied for a number of years.

‘The existing building dates back to the early 1980s and contributes little to the overall character of the street frontage,’ it said.

‘The design of the residential building therefore aims to provide more appropriate and characterful development that will help repair the streetscape.

‘The proposed development will also enhance the overall visual quality of the area whilst providing a range of modern, adaptable homes in the heart of St Helier, close to all local amenities and services.’

St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft said it was pleasing to see that Dandara had taken the concerns about the previous development on board.

But he added that it would be up to his parish’s Roads Committee to decide if there was a sufficient number of spaces.

‘I think the percentage that planning officers require is to have 0.7 parking spaces per unit and my argument is that there ought to be parking provisions if it is a new build,’ he said.

‘But it is great to see that despite all of the current uncertainty, local developers are taking opportunities to regenerate outworn office accommodation and turn them into much-needed accommodation for residents.

‘That is to be welcomed and where possible, it should include parking to take the pressure off on-street provision, which is difficult to manage and supply.’

According to the design statement, the development could lead to the removal of some spaces on Hilary Street to allow vehicles to enter and exit the building.

Mr Crowcroft added: ‘The on-street spaces are used by people visiting the retail and hospitality businesses around there so that will be something that the Roads Committee will have to take a view on. They are the highways authority in this case, but Planning will have the final say on what is allowed.’

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