Council gives green light to Rowe Court replacement

THE SITE of an arson attack is set to be redeveloped following the demolition of the damaged buildings.

After 63 Rowe Court, Norcot, was burnt down in the incident which claimed the lives of two men, the building was left destroyed.

Following the demolition of what remained, Reading Borough Council has now green-lit proposals to rebuild on the site. The vote was at a planning committee meeting on Wednesday, March 1.

A replacement block of homes will be developed, containing 24 one-bedroom flats and studio apartments complete with balconies as part of a four-storey complex.

Jon Murch, a planning consultant and agent on behalf of the site’s developers, Davies Murch, said: “The owners of the properties have lost their homes through no fault of their own, the leases give them a right to ongoing ownership.”

He made assurances that: “Nothing could happen on the site other than in accordance with those leases.”

The development is being funded through an insurance company after the previous building was deemed unsafe to remain following comprehensive fire damage.

Some residents have raised concerns about the new development, with Robert Macock, whose home is nearby, arguing that the new building would overlook into other private residences.

Councillors also raised concerns about the removal of a maple tree, but were assured that plans would include the planting of three more maple trees at the site.

Despite concerns about the building overlooking nearby residences, the council stated that the site was “considered a suitable distance for the development not to result in overbearing impacts or loss of light.”

Proposals include two options for balconies, with the option for one each at the front and rear of each flat, or just the front.

Councillors submitted plans with either option possible, as they noted that they shared “concern with neighbours regarding the proposed introduction of rear balconies ... and the potential loss of privacy to the rear amenity spaces ... of Osbourne Road in particular.”

The committee report states: “Rear balconies at first and second floor level would result in direct and uninterrupted views into these neighbouring gardens when the balconies are in use, contrary to policy CC8.”

“As such, ‘option 2’ drawings, which see only balconies to serve the front flats proposed is recommended for approval by Officers as the omission of rear balconies would retain privacy for the occupiers of Osbourne Road.

“However, both sets of plans/ options have been put forward for member consideration.”

The notice of the council’s decision has been served to development agents, who will now move forward with planning approval.

■ Full details about the proposals for the development are available via the council’s planning portal under the reference number 221693