An 'uncomfortable decision' - but student block is approved

COUNCILLORS TOLD THAT REJECTING PLANS WOULD BE 'CHALLENGING' TO DEFEND

- By JOE LOCKER Local democracy reporter

PLANS for a heavily opposed student block have narrowly been approved in what a councillor branded an “uncomfortable decision”.

Applicant David Pownall submitted plans to build a four-storey block off Castle Boulevard, next to The Park estate, and they had been tipped for approval at a meeting in September.

The city council meeting was attended by a significant number of Park residents, who have been calling for the 137-bed scheme to be rejected. Councillors were informed by officers that a rejection would be “challenging” to defend at an appeal, but after a debate they opted to defer the scheme based on design concerns.

The developer made changes, including making the exterior of the building more attractive, and they returned to a council planning committee meeting yesterday.

Speaking on behalf of residents, Councillor Matt Shannon (Lab), who represents the Castle ward, said: “I ask again, is there a need for even more student accommodation in a city with falling student numbers, and is that need so urgent that we must accept a proposal of moderate design, in a sensitive location which deserves outstanding design.”