0
On the advice of his Inspector, the Secretary of State has granted planning permission for two called-in applications concerning a large mixed-use scheme to the east of Bristol Temple Meads station (known as Land at Silverthorne Lane). The applications were called-in by the Secretary of State for his own consideration on 7 December 2020.
A 10-day public inquiry was held in May 2021 to consider the proposals, which included 371 dwelling houses (including 73 affordable homes), new office space, an academic research and development space for Bristol University, 693 student flats, a new canal side walkway, and a 1,600 pupil state-funded secondary school.
Adopting his Inspector’s reasoning, the Secretary of State considered that the application was in conflict with development plan policy in terms of heritage assets and was not in strict accordance with local flood risk policy. However, he held that the benefits of the scheme meant that the application should be determined otherwise than in accordance with the development plan, and accepted his Inspector’s recommendation to grant permission.
Bristol City Council supported the proposals. The Environment Agency as a Rule 6 Party opposed the proposals on flood risk grounds.
James Maurici QC and Alex Shattock appeared on behalf of the Applicant, Feeder Estates, instructed by Clarke Willmott.
Heather Sargent appeared on behalf of the Environment Agency.
John Litton QC appeared on behalf of Rule 6 Party Summix Developments, instructed by Rok Planning.
A copy of the decision can be found here.
