Plans to build 22 flats in Birkenhead without any parking provision have been put to Wirral Council.
Under the plans, a four-storey building will be constructed on the corner of Taylor and Cleveland Street with the goal of redeveloping a long-term vacant brownfield site.
All 22 flats are classed as affordable, with 20 of the flats being single bedroom units and the two others featuring just two bedrooms.
Wirral is set to adopt a new Local Plan next year, which could demand that around 12,000 homes are built in the borough over the next 15 years, with many of these to be built in urban areas such as Birkenhead.
The applicant has sought to fit this proposal into that plan.
A planning statement written by architects Rolfe Judd Planning, on behalf of the applicant Matthew Titley, from Frankby in West Wirral, noted the plan would contribute to Wirral’s housing needs without using greenbelt land.
The statement added: “The proposed residential development will deliver a supporting range and type of accommodation for young professionals, and small families in an area which is typified by larger detached dwellings often unsuitable for first time buyers.”
As the vaccine rollout begins, find out how many Covid-19 cases there are in your area
Rolfe Judd also confirmed that no parking spaces will be provided as part of the development.
The statement read: “The site is highly accessible by public transport and is located within walking distance to a number of local shops and services to support future residents.
“As such, given the national agenda to reduce dependence on cars and associated emissions, the proposed zero parking provision is considered to be appropriate and in accordance with both national and local planning policy objectives.”
The statement continued: “The development sits within the boundary of the [town] centre controlled parking zone where on-street parking is controlled between 8am and 6.30pm.
“Following discussions with the council and highways authority it is confirmed the proposed residential accommodation would have a limited impact on surrounding parking, given the scheme is mainly single bedroomed units.
“The proposal for zero car parking within the development is therefore accepted as there are dedicated parking bays along this section of Cleveland Street which would provide sufficient parking for residents or visitors to the development.”
The site is very close to several bus stops and train stations and 22 secure cycle parking spaces are available for future residents.
This is part of the vision for the homes.
The planning statement said the proposal was for: “A sustainable development which will promote opportunity for future residents to travel by foot, cycle and public transport, therefore reducing the reliance on the private car.”
