Decision due on Plymouth tower

A decision on whether or not to grant approval for revised plans to build a 21-storey mixed-use development on Plymouth’s East Quay is set to be made next week.Sutton Harbour Group is behind the application, which was submitted in late 2020.The proposals have dubbed the scheme a “landmark”.Lined up are 170 apartments with 590 bedspaces, with 33,400 sq ft of commercial space also earmarked for the ground and first floors. A gym is also proposed.Plans were approved for a similar scheme in December 2018 but changes have now been made, with the most notable being the removal of the underground car park and the provision of alternative car parking off-site at the St John’s Bridge site.The applicant was seeking to make such amendments through a S73 application but officers advised this “would not be appropriate” and a full planning application would be required.With regard to affordable housing, Sutton Harbour Group proposed potential alternative options before determining a £3.15m payment towards off-site affordable housing delivery.This approach was agreed as part of the previous planning permission and officers agreed in principle this contribution could be retained in relation to the scheme going forward, acknowledging the difficulties in viability.The height and number of apartments has remained the same.An officer report drawn up ahead of Plymouth City Council’s planning committee meeting on 10 February noted that the revised proposals would provide wider regeneration and economic benefits, including a visual enhancement of the stalled site.Approval has been recommended.