DPC clears several projects, turns down two

Full planning permission was granted during Wednesday’s meeting of the Development and Planning Commission to two separate applicants hoping to redevelop a Main Street property.

Both 267 and 269 Main Street gained permission, with the first applicant seeking permission for a proposed fifth floor extension and creation of roof terrace gardens, the installation of a lift and the internal refurbishment of the common areas within the property.

The other applicant sought permission for the proposed conversion of part of the commercial premises into a restaurant/cafeteria and stores. In addition approval to refurbish the first floor offices.

The project for the Ex-King George V Hospital, South Barrack Road and Bishop Healy House also gained permission.

The applicant was seeking permission to covert the old hospital into a care home and to construct a new building.

Also approved was the proposed replacement of a swimming pool to terrace area and structural works/extension to the basement below at House 7, 1 South Pavilion Road, proposed demolition of five storey building at the Caleta Hotel and the proposed demolition of a single storey concrete block work wall and remaining masonry piers that support redundant pipes at 92 Devil's Tower Road.

The outline planning application for 9 Poca Roca, Upper Rock was refused as it is not in agreement with the policy for the Nature Reserve laid out in the Development Plan 2009. The applicant addressed the Commission and appealed to them to allow her build where other family members current reside. However, five Commission members said no, one said yes and four abstained.

Refusal was given the proposed extension to the building at 6 Cumberland Steps. The applicant is seeking to extend by an additional floor to create seven new apartments. Both the agent and objectors addressed the Commission. During the meeting some objectors made comments from the public gallery such was the emotion of the application. When the vote was cast four were in favour and four were against with two abstaining. The Town Planner has the custodial vote which resulted in another no and the application being refused. A round of applause erupted from the objectors.