End for eyesore? Plan for 12 flats to replace ‘magnet for graffiti’
THERE are plans to demolish one of Cheltenham’s worst eyesores. The old BT building in Parabola Road has been described as a “magnet for graffiti” by the town’s MP, Alex Chalk.
Now a developer wants to demolish it and build 12 flats on the site, which is in the Montpellier area.
The site owner, Telereal Trillium, has instructed Black Box Planning Ltd and Roberts Limbrick Architects to prepare draft proposal plans for the redevelopment of the site.
The plan is to demolish and clear the existing 1950s building and redevelop the site with a new building containing about 12 residential apartments.
Conor Flanagan, of Black Box Planning Ltd, said: “We think this is an exciting opportunity to replace a derelict building with a utilitarian appearance, with a new building which is more befitting of the quality of architecture along Parabola Road and in this part of Cheltenham.
“Prior to submission of a planning application, we will be hosting a public consultation event on the draft proposal plans, on November 28, between 2pm and 6pm at The Garden Room, St. Andrew’s Church, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1SP.
“All local residents and businesses are welcome to come along and see the plans and discuss them the appointed design team.”
He said the building was constructed as a telephone repeater station for BT.
He added: “The building functioned by applying high-grade amplification to the copper wire in telephone cables to ensure minimal loss in transmission.
“With advances in communications technology, this repeater station is now at the end of its operational life and the site is therefore available for redevelopment.”
Conservative MP Mr Chalk, who has made a point of calling for shabby looking sites in Cheltenham to be tidied up, said: “This is really positive news.
“The existing building is a magnet for graffiti which I have had to pester BT to clean off in the past.
“Bringing derelict brownfield sites into use is essential, providing housing for young people, easing pressure on precious green field sites, and removing urban grot spots.
“I’m looking forward to ticking this eyesore off my list.” robin.jenkins@reachplc.com