Stambridge Mill planning application goes in

After much speculation, a formal planning application to redevelop Stambridge Mill has finally been submitted to the Council. In what is a significant scale down of original plans, the intention is to build 45 houses plus a total of 51 flats across four blocks up to three storey in height. Originally, there was talk of approx 250 units at this site, so the reduction to a total of 96 marks a sharp reduction in numbers. This is probably due to the economic climate, although some will question whether this leaves open the option for further development in the future.

This has been a challenging project for Inner London Group, the owner, which has seen a number of architectural revisions aside from the number of units proposed. Not only will it involve the bulldozing of most of the existing Mill structures (though parts will be retained), the scheme also requires a significant investment in the flood defences on this river front site, as well as associated landscaping works, including the bridle path, bridge, communal spaces and the river frontage itself.

ILG will be focused on making a return on their 4 year old investment. They acquired the 4.1 acre site in 2007, paying £1.8million to previous owners, Associated British Food (Allied Mills).

The Council originally wanted to retain the site for industrial/employment use, but changed planning permission approx two years ago to allow the possibility of residential development.

The reduction in units, if this is the total planned, will offer some relief to nearby residents, though there will be objections due to the increased pressure it will place on the local road network and utilities.

There is no news yet whether ILG will hold a community event to display their plans, but the Council are broadly in support of the scheme, not least because it saves the tax payer the expense of urgent remedial work of the ageing flood defences.

This Blog will be following this project as it progresses.