A council has withdrawn one of its key reasons for refusing a housing scheme, just as a public enquiry gets under way.
Countryside Partnership’s proposals to build 203 homes and 160 sq m of commercial space at the site of the former Army Base Repair Organisation (ABRO) in Flagstaff Road, Colchester were refused by the city council in November.
The council claimed the plans would harm the Garrison Conservation Area more than it would benefit it.
But at the start of a public enquiry on July 9, as part of Countryside’s appeal, the council announced it will no longer defend that reason for refusal after legal advice and discussions with the developer.
The council says the developer has revised its neoclassical-style blocks fronting the Roman Circus, offering an improvement in architectural quality and now argues the updated proposals tip in favour of not contesting the design elements of the scheme.
Cllr Martyn Warnes, chair of the planning committee, said: “This was a carefully considered decision and had all party support. The revised scheme offers improved architectural quality and a more respectful approach to the site’s historic context.
“While we remain committed to protecting Colchester’s heritage, we believe this outcome strikes a better balance and allows us to move forward constructively.”
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