Backing given to 'iconic' department store site plan

An old department store is set to get a new lease of life after planning officers backed a developer's plan to turn it into flats.

Beales in Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, has been empty since the chain went into administration in 2020 after 140 years of trading.

In November 2022, plans were submitted to BCP Council to convert the building into 130 flats with shops, a gym and a pool.

BCP Council confirmed the plans had been granted permission under officers' delegated powers.

According to the application, East Cliff Property Limited and agent Terrence O'Rourke, now tor&co, want to extend the building, making the total number of storeys 13 including the existing basement.

The upper floors will be converted into flats, while the ground and lower ground floors will include the retail spaces, gym and pool.

The company has also planned for 42 car parking spaces, as well as space to store bikes.

A spokesperson for tor&co promised a "sensitive and high-quality adaptive re-use" of the building, that would respect the proximity of the building to the Grade I listed St Peter's Church.

"We are delighted to have played a part in breathing new life into this landmark building," they said.

"This development will not only help to address Bournemouth's significant housing need but also revitalise the building through the re-instatement of commercial uses at street level, providing a focus during the day and into the evening."

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