Agenda item

The Committee received a report of the CPO in relation to the demolition of the existing building and redevelopment to provide a mixed use building at Emperor House 35 Vine Street London.

The CPO advised that the proposed development would regenerate the site, removing the existing building and delivering a mixed use development which would enliven the eastern part of the City and contribute to the City's offer of student accommodation, heritage assets/cultural facilities and employment floorspace.

Brian Noone, Chris Murphy and one another spoke in objection to the application on the grounds of overshadowing and loss of light, the need for additional office space as opposed to student accommodation, the impact of students living in the area and the lack of infrastructure to support them.

Johnny Manns on behalf of Urbanist, and Susan Davis from an adjacent building, were heard in support of the application which would provide high quality student facilities, add to the vitality of the area and assist the growth of education and business.

Members asked a number of questions in relation to the to the operation of the incubation accommodation and how it would be used out of term time, the population of students and a student management plans, servicing and deliveries, fire precautions, the impact on the residential amenity of neighbouring properties and why the site was deemed not viable for new office space.

Debate ensued and several Members spoke in support of the application as they felt the applicant had made a credible case regarding the need for student accommodation, as well as the need to provide accommodation suitable for SME’s. The report concluded that the loss of office space was acceptable and an appropriate use for the area which was in need of regeneration.

Other Members spoke against the proposal and expressed concern about the lack of infrastructure to support a new student population, the impact on traffic management and servicing, and the loss of a prime location for office space that also had excellent transport links.

Arising from the discussion the application was put to the vote, the result of which was as follows:

16 votes in favour of the application

5 votes against

RESOLVED – That planning permission be granted for the above proposal in accordance with the details set out in the attached schedule subject to planning obligations and other agreements being entered into under Section 106 of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 and Section 278 of the Highway Act 1980 in respect of those matters set out in the report, and the decision notice not being issued until the Section 106 obligations have been

Executed.