Homes approved for former hotel site

An application proposing the redevelopment of a former hotel in Northampton to provide more than 40 affordable homes has been approved.A Z Investments sought the go-ahead for the partial demolition of 21-23 Bridge Street, with the front façade to be retained and repaired, to make way for 43 residential properties.The grade II-listed site comprises the former The Angel Hotel, which became a bar and nightclub in the 90s. In 2012, the structure was consumed by fire and significant damage was done to the upper floors.The proposed scheme comprises a mix of studios and one- and two-bed flats, along with three ground floor commercial units.A statement from the applicant said the project would “make use of an otherwise redundant site that has been extensively compromised as a result of fire”.Plans were reviewed by West Northamptonshire Council’s Northampton planning committee on 1 November.A report for the committee said: “The proposal would bring a prominent site in the town centre into a highly intensive use, contributing to the vitality and viability of the surrounding area, forming a catalyst for further regeneration works in the Bridge Street area and providing much-needed housing at a time when the authority is unable to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.”Both planning and listed building consent was approved.