Historic England has objected to plans for a six-storey flat complex and restaurant in Poole’s historic Old Town.
Developers want to build 38 apartments at the former Dibben & Sons’ site, Lower High Street, which is listed and dates back to the mid to late 19th century. Applicant, Hignell Baker Investments Ltd has applied to demolish the central warehouse and the two buildings that form 13 High Street, while retaining the facades. However, the plans have been opposed by a handful of residents, Historic England and Borough of Poole’s (BOP) Poole Town ward councillor Mark Howell.
The Bournemouth Echo writes:
Historic England… objects to the plans on ‘heritage grounds’. Simon Hickman, Historic England’s principal inspector of historic buildings and areas, contacted BOP as part of the planning process. Mr Hickman said: ‘Under these proposals the facades of the High Street buildings would remain but tacked onto a bland three storey building with all the character of a suburban shopping precinct. The pleasing irregularity in building height within this part of Lower High Street would wither under the monotony of the proposed roofscape, with the severed facades applied to its front.’
He continued: ‘An unfortunate facet of the Lower High Street is its lack of engagement and interaction with the quay. The failure to provide public routes through the proposed development is another missed opportunity in this respect, neglecting the chance to link the High Street with Strand Street and the multiple historic alleyways that run from here onto the quay.’
…The application has yet to be determined.
