Cardiff older persons flat scheme set for approval

Plans for a major older persons flats development and community centre in Cardiff are set to move forward after they were recommended for approval.LRM Planning, acting on behalf of Cardiff Council, is seeking permission to demolish the existing Canton Community Centre and multi-use games area (MUGA) to make way for the new new scheme.The site is on Leckwith Road, close to the junction with Cowbridge Road.The application envisages the construction of 41 older persons council flats, comprising 39 one-bedroom flats and two two-bedroom apartments, alongside communal rooms, staff facilities, and a community centre.Predominantly five storeys, the development will step down gradually to three storeys as it approaches the residential setting of the properties on Philip Street to the north.The proposal will replace the community hall and improve the public space, with key aims being to help residents maintain independence for longer, meet the needs of more vulnerable users and help tackle social isolation.A ground floor community centre will be managed by the council and is designed to ensure that almost all activities currently run by Canton Community Centre can continue.A community garden and the provision of a replacement MUGA are also included in the plans together with landscape planting, car parking, waste storage facilities and associated infrastructure.According to a report to be scrutinised by Cardiff City Council’s planning committee, the proposal is considered to be high quality design that accords with local and national policies.Located on a brownfield siteit will provide “much-needed affordable homes” in a sustainable location.Approval is recommended, subject to a unilateral undertaking from the applicant to secure a financial contribution towards open space in the locality and improve local car parks.Plans for the scheme have been drawn up by AHMM.