Split decision for Highnam Business Park application

Plans for a major mixed-use scheme at Highnam Business Park in Gloucestershire have been subjected to a split decision.M7 Planning is behind the application, which has been submitted as an outline proposal.The main element is the 322,000 sq ft of commercial space lined up for Highnam Business Park, which is currently at circa 100 per cent occupancy.It comprises 22 office buildings and houses more than 30 businesses.While a number of details are reserved, it has been made clear that the new space would be brought forward as ‘office-type’ accommodation.A planning statement submitted to Tewkesbury Borough Council said: “In regard to commercial development, while not currently allocated for employment-led development, land to the east of the existing business park at Highnam is recognised in the emerging Local Plan as a potential location for further employment opportunities, through the expansion of existing business facilities.”Also lined up are 100 homes, which would accommodate a mixture of types and tenures, including one, two, three and four-bedrooms.A total of 40 per cent would also be affordable.The application has gone before the council’s planning committee with a report drawn up ahead of the meeting noting that “significant weight” should be given to the provision of housing and the employment development.In a split decision, members have backed the commercial aspect of the application but refused the residential plans.