A £69m, 237-flat build-to-rent scheme in Milton Keynes is recommended for approval this week, despite planning officers at the council acknowledging the controversial nature of the proposals.
Urban Village Group submitted plans in June to redevelop the office building at 500 Avebury Boulevard into a six-floor scheme known as Westminster House, which will offer one- and two-bedroom homes, a gym, cinema and workspace for residents.
The officers’ report prepared for Milton Keynes City Council said the plans had been referred to the planning committee “by reason of the controversial nature of the proposals”, including its scale and nature, a call-in by the town council and conflict with certain council policies. Nonetheless, the officers said the plans were recommended for approval at a 3 November meeting and “would help to rejuvenate this site”.
At the time the planning application was made, Urban Village Group chief executive Nick Sellman said: “There is a strong and growing demand for homes in the private rented sector and our Westminster House development will help address the growing requirement in the Milton Keynes region…
“As the national housing shortage continues, with an average 200,000 homes built each year against a government target of 300,000, there is significant scope for major growth in the BTR sector.”
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