Newport Street flats plan redrawn after 'dull' criticism

The move to demolish the former Fine Pine furniture shop in Newport Street, next to the River Severn in Worcester, and build ‘modern’ flats was turned down by Worcester City Council more than a year ago.

The design was criticised by Worcester City Council last year and developer Squared Capital says it has now addressed those concerns with the new application – whittling down the number of flats from six to four.

New artist’s impressions now include windows at the front of the building along with bigger windows and balconies.

NOW: The former Fine Pine furniture shop in Newport Street, Worcester (Image: Google)

A new commercial unit would also be built on the ground floor of the three-storey building with the four flats built on the upper floors.

Nick Carroll, the agent for the applicant, said the plan would “enhance and bring viability” to an empty building.

“One notable change is the addition of an engaging and lively façade facing Newport Street, featuring multiple openings,” the application said.

NEW: The revised design for the three-storey building in Newport Street, Worcester (Image: Nick Carroll)

“Additionally, improvements have been made to enhance the amount of natural light that enters each apartment, which will improve the overall living experience for future residents.

“These larger openings also blend better with the nearby architectural style.”

The council’s planners had derided the first application calling it “poor” and criticised its lack of windows.

OLD: The previous plan for Newport Street which was ejected by both Worcester City Council and a government planning inspector (Image: Nick Carroll)

The council also hit out at the application for failing to include a flood risk assessment for the proposed three-storey building despite being metres away from the banks of the temperamental River Severn.

That decision was reinforced in May when the government’s planning inspectors sided with the council and turned down an appeal.

The planning inspector said the building would not provide enough natural light and would be restrictive for future tenants.

The inspector also said the design of the building made it look “incongruous and jarring” with the rest of the street.

The new application can be viewed by visiting Worcester City Council’s website. The application number is 23/00783/FUL and consultation ends on October 26.