Negotiations Update.

In February the committee agreed the head of planning would conduct further negotiations with West about the plans for the Petros site.

His report to the March planning committee meeting stated:

2.3 The design of the scheme is at an advanced stage and there is a considerable amount of information available on design, construction, structure, cost and value and as such they have been able to examine all potential options thoroughly. This process has made it clear that it would not be possible to remove a complete storey from the residential block and leave the scheme economically and commercially viable. It should be noted that the scale and height of the scheme was reduced considerably as a result of the consultation process with the community and English Heritage.

2.4 The applicant does, however, believe that it is possible to re-engineer and re-profile the residential block on the Venice Street frontage. This would result in a loss of floorspace in excess of 100 m sq and would require a re-design of internal layouts. The impact of this would be a 3m reduction in the height of the building on Venice Street at its junction with Whitworth Street, reducing to 1.5m at the junction of Venice Street and Brazil Street. The effect of this on Venice Street and therefore the residents of Regency House would be beneficial as it would further improve views of the sky and improve access to daylight and sunlight.

3.1 The Head of Planning believes that the scheme has been negotiated in accordance with the Committee decision and is satisfied that these changes will result in improvements for residents in Regency House. Subject to receiving a full set of amended drawings he therefore intends to consult the Chair with a view to exercising his delegated authority to approve the applications. Those who commented on the applications will be notified of the decision accordingly.

So the negotiations have chopped 3m off the height at the most affected corner.

Chris G.