Decision on £85m scheme delayed for a month

A decision on an £85m scheme has been delayed by a month at the request of the developers.

Planners were due to consider the scheme which would see a former school in Bristol transformed into a community for older people.

Planning officers had recommend the scheme at the former St Christopher’s school be turned down.

But the team behind the project has asked for a delay so further talks can be carried out in a bid to resolve the situation.

Basil Demeroutis, managing partner of FORE Partnership, said: “We requested for the decision to be delayed, to allow officer’s more time to review their report.

“We will continue to work closely with Bristol City Council during this period, while we await the outcome of our application to be determined.”

The proposals include the redevelopment of  five villas overlooking the Downs and regenerate the rest of the site which was occupied by St Christopher’s School.

Investment firm FORE Partnership and care operator Amicala submitted the plans for the five acre site to the council last year.

Developer Socius has been appointed to manage the project which has attracted hundreds of objections from local residents.

Planning officers recommended Bristol City Council refuse permission for the development.

Officials said the proposals, which could see the demolition of existing buildings on the site and the construction of new blocks of flats ranging between three- and five-storeys in height, would be “unacceptable in terms of design”.

 

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