Agenda item

The Committee received a pre-application presentation on the proposals for Buckingham Gateway Site, 132-144 High Street, Slough. Members noted the purpose, scope and format of the discussion, as outlined in the Code of Conduct for Councillors and Officers in relation to planning and licensing matters.

The pre-application presentation was given by a representative of the applicant, Vistastar Leisure PLC.  The proposal was to redevelop the temporary car park and erect 4 buildings ranging from 4 to 19 storeys to provide approximately 300 residential flats, a health club, ground floor commercial/retail units and associated basement car park.  The Committee noted the proposals for the overall concept for the site and a wide range of specific issues including car parking, affordable housing, materials and landscaping.

Councillor Ali, a ward member for Central, commented on the presentation.

Following the presentation, Members welcomed the fact that a proposal was coming forward for an important, empty site in the town centre and raised a number of points including:

·  Design and materials – the overall appearance and materials as presented were generally welcomed.

·  Scale and height – several Members commented on the appropriateness of a 19 storey development on this site and whether the size and density would be in keeping in this location.

·  Car parking – it was proposed the residential element would be car free.  Members expressed some concerns about the lack of provision for visitors, insufficient disabled spaces and the fact that car parking would be provided solely for gym users.

·  Affordable housing – Members noted the proposal for 20% split between on and off site provision and reminded the applicant that this was significantly below the requirement set out in the Developers Guide for a scheme of this size.

·  Landscaping – Members commented that they hoped to see adequate communal space in the central courtyard, with sufficient light for the trees and planting.

At the conclusion of the discussion, the presentation was noted.

Resolved –  That the pre-application presentation be noted.