Manchester developer Urban Splash could face more disappointment over its planned redevelopment of an 18.5-acre site in Morecambe, after five years of trying.
The firm, led by Tom Bloxham, has submitted three separate planning applications since 2007 for its proposed Central Promenade project in Morecambe, Lancashire, with the latest recommended for refusal later today.
The site is adjacent to the Midland Hotel, which was redeveloped by Urban Splash in 2008 at a cost of £11m. Urban Splash and architect Flacq want to build a mixed-use scheme comprising shops, residential, offices, leisure space and a hotel.
The plans also propose a new boardwalk and public realm around the Midland Hotel.
Previous applications in 2007 and 2010 were turned down.
Revised plans were submitted in July, with some support from the council. Janice Hanson, Lancaster city council’s cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration and planning, said: “The fact that a company such as Urban Splash is still wanting to come in and invest in Morecambe is a welcome sign and one which we should all support.”
However, during a public consultation, the application drew 531 objections compared with 126 expressions of support.
Lancaster’s planning officers now believe the scheme is “no longer viable” and that Urban Splash could not “guarantee deliverability of the scheme in full”.
Concerns have also be raised on traffic and parking facilities.
Urban Splash declined to comment.
simon.binns@estatesgazette.com
