Issue - meetings

2008/1991 - Demolition of existing three buildings and redevelopment of the site to erect a part 8, part 14 and part 17 storey building and a part 11, part 12 storey building to provide for student accommodation (661 rooms), Class C1 hotel (230 rooms), Class B1 use (6.916 sq m GEA), along with disabled car parking, access, landscaping and associated works.

14.1  The Planning Officer introduced the report, as set out within the agenda.  A model of the proposed development was displayed for Members’ information.

14.2  The Planning Officer referred to the addendum which set out additional information regarding TfL contributions, sustainability, roof plant, community policing facilities, policy comments and Invest in Hackney.

14.3  Concern was raised regarding the loss of employment space and wished to clarify whether this was a departure from the London Plan.  The Planning Officer explained that the Plan encouraged a varied mix of employment space and that the proposed development provided flexible, high quality work space, which supported local businesses.

14.4  Concern was also raised regarding the student element of the proposal, especially around the Hoxton area and also the issues surrounding sewerage and the water supply, highlighted on pages 534/535 of the agenda.  In response, the Planning Officer stated that they had consulted with Thames Water and that the issues raised were covered by condition.

14.5  In response to a query regarding the perceived rents charges for the student accommodation, it was explained that the rental side of the development would be managed by a separate provider and so the figures were unknown at present.

14.6  The Sub-Committee requested that the same architect be used throughout the scheme and that this be added as an additional clause to the S106 agreement.  This was AGREED.

14.7  The Chair asked whether rain water harvesting was included within the scheme and the applicant stated that he would be happy to work through the technical issues so that this could be provided.  The Chair requested that this be added as an additional condition.  This was AGREED.

14.8  Discussion took place regarding the issue surrounding the suggested contribution towards public realm improvements at Old Street roundabout from TfL, in which the Council did not approve of.  It was explained that the planning department were in discussions with TfL regarding the proposed improvement plans and that details had yet to be finalised.  The various options were discussed, including the suggestion to collect the contribution in trust for TfL and that terms and conditions be set out to determine what the contribution be spent on.

14.9  Following discussion, Members requested that this matter be delegated to the Head of Development, Chair and Vice-Chair of the Sub-Committee, to negotiate the clause under the S106 agreement with the developer, regarding the TfL contribution.  This was AGREED.

14.10  The Planning Officer referred to the community policing facilities at the ground floor, which were being provided at a peppercorn rent for a period of 25 years.  He added that the developer had  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14