Civic Society criticise ‘shocking’ plans for 29 apartments at Beeston marina

Aug 7, 2023

Beeston marina plans (credit Broxtowe Borough Council)

By Anna Whittaker, Local Democracy Reporter

Plans to build 29 apartments at Beeston Marina have been criticised by the local civic society.

Beeston Marina Ltd has applied to build one and two bedroom apartments at the site, which is also home to Beeston’s Heritage Centre.

The applicant said it would transform the area into “a new waterfront development for modern living”.

The land is currently used as a static mobile home site.

The applicant said the plans will “meet the need for well-designed housing in the area, providing a modern and stylish solution to the current housing shortage”.

But the Beeston Civic Society called the application “shocking” and says it wants to see the proposal refused, or for more sympathetically designed, affordable homes to be put forward.

Tamar Feast, a trustee of Beeston Civic Society, said: “We think it fails on every level of planning policy.

“We believe aspects of biodiversity and the local wildlife have been overlooked.

“It is out of scale and I think it will have a significant negative impact fo the local residents. These homes aren’t affordable.

“Beeston Rylands is a really close, thriving community. They stick together because they are a bit out on a limb compared to the rest of Beeston.

“They’ve been really vocal about how they don’t want this plan.

“If the residents are stating it’s not what they want, it’s important to listen to them.

“I think councillors should listen to their community because they are not on the fence about this.

“I understand we need housing and perhaps riverside cottages would be nice.”

Previously, three applications for housing have been submitted but all have been refused due to the density of the homes.

The applicant said in planning documents: “Currently, the site comprises an underutilized brownfield plot of land with a low residential density.

“The proposed development seeks to transform this vacant land into a vibrant and
sustainable residential complex, contributing to the revitalisation of the area.

“The apartments will be designed to the highest standards with modern fixtures, fittings, and amenities.

“The apartments will also be energy efficient, making them ideal for the long-term.

“The development will provide high-quality housing that is affordable and conveniently located.

“The site will be designed in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly.”

There has already been a public consultation on the plans and now the Civic Society says it is planning to object to the formal plans before they go to Broxtowe Borough Council’s planning committee.

Tamar added: “Councillors and the Planning Committee do listen to public views on planning – they appreciate your involvement, and your views will be taken into account.

“The more views local residents can give – especially on the character and importance of the site to you personally – the stronger the case of information they have.”

She said there is a public meeting at the Boat and Horses pub at on August 9 at 6.30pm to discuss the proposals.

Beeston Marina Ltd did not respond to the request for comment.