Peel Commissioners not objecting to East Quay Hotel and Apartments

It was one of the topics discussed at its public meeting last night

Peel Commissioners have agreed not to object to the planning application submitted for a new hotel and apartments on East Quay.

The local authority was joined by representatives from the developer to answer questions about parking, building height and Castle Street Gardens.

The commissioners had deferred a decision on the application until last night, where it was unanimously agreed not to object to the application.

As part of the discussion Nick Ingham and John Wilson answered questions sent to the commissioners by residents.

The pair confirmed that there were two options for parking which would provide more space than required and if needed, some of those would be made available for the public.

They also said they understand how much of an issue parking is in the town and don’t want to add to the problem, but can’t resolve it entirely.

The proposed options would either offer 57 spaces or 54 to hotel guests and residents of the apartments.

Mr Wilson also confirmed that the ownership of the Castle Street Gardens and its refurbishment scheme would be in the hands of Peel Commissioners – but paid for by the development.

He added that the developer would look into putting on gates as part of the planning application, to help prevent anti-social behaviour in the area.

However, he and Mr Ingham said the heights of the building would allow them to have five floors, and rather than being taller it takes up more of the width of the proposed site.

They added that the ground is ‘undulating’ and confirmed they were operating with a two meter buffer on the boundary line.

A proposal was put forward by Commissioner Ray Harmer that the board don’t object to the proposals but add comments raised from the meeting.

Also on its agenda was the confirmation that a by-election will take place in December to fill the vacant seat on the board.

Clerk Derek Sewell said the Cabinet Office was arranging the dates and paperwork for it to take place.

He said nomination papers will be available at the end of the month and if more than one person stands – polling will take place in early December.

Peel Commissioners will next meet on Thursday 19 November.