Face of the town centre set to change? (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Face of the town centre set to change?

ONE of Cirencester town centre's most run-down areas is to be given a much-needed facelift.

Developer Taylor Woodrow wants to build 32 appartments in a former builders' yard opposite the town's police station.

And it is hoped the scheme will breathe new life into the area, around West Way and the Forum.

The move comes two years after a similar scheme was turned down by Cotswold District Council.

But planning officers are recommending the new plans - which will be discussed by councillors on Wednesday - should be approved.

A report due to go before the council's planning (regulatory) committee says: "The site occupies a highly prominent position.

"Officers are satisfied that the current proposal would make a positive contribution to the streetscene of West Way and the important Forum area, and would enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area.

"Officers are content that the development would deliver a series of benefits to the town centre in terms of housing mix, vitality and visual interest that have been longstanding objectives of the local planning authority to be afforded by the site's re-use."

Plans to demolish outbuildings and build an apartment block on the site were turned down in February 2002.

Members felt that particular scheme was too large and "an unsympathetic, over-dominant and intrusive addition to that part of the town."

Planners also felt it was out of keeping with historic buildings nearby. But Taylor Woodrow has submitted new plans for a smaller development and, despite concerns raised by highways officials over access, they are recommending the scheme be permitted.

Part of the agreement would be that a fifth of the homes provided would be classed as affordable accommodation.