An application to build two blocks with a total of 20 flats at the site of the former Weston Dairies – now The School Wear Centre – in Margate has been submitted to Thanet council.
Applicant Weston Property Development LTD wants to demolish the existing buildings on the site in Addington Street and the rear of Upper Grove and create a part two, part three and part four storey building containing one 1-bed, 15 two-bed and four 3-bed flats.
Weston Dairies was in operation between 1967 – 2003. Part of the site; in what is currently the school uniform shop, was the main dairy bottling and distribution depot.
The older residential buildings along both sides of Upper Grove were used as staff accommodation for the dairy.
To the south east of the site, currently Kent Volkswagen, used to be the milk float yard and charging area. 6a Upper Grove contains the existing office to the first floor and car workshop to the ground floor which historically was used for carpentry and maintenance of the dairy’s equipment.
The site also includes M&D Autos which is a vehicle repair workshop in Upper Grove.
In planning documents for the applicant it says it is aware that the council would require 30% affordable housing, unless demonstrated as unviable, which would equate to 6 apartments.
It adds: “Where viable and deliverable within the scope of the development, the Applicant will consider the potential location of affordable housing within the development in discussion with council planning and housing officers.”
Parking, refuse storage and other utility functions are to be at the rear of the site. There will be on-site parking for each apartment, with two additional visitor spaces – equalling 22 spaces.
The applicant says: “The proposal will replace existing commercial uses, including a vehicle repair workshop, which are closely related to existing residential dwellings, with a more neighbourly residential use.”
A decision on the application is yet to be made.
Find the documents on Thanet council’s planning portal, reference F/TH/25/1073
Well at least there is some parking and not the usual bike racks! Which in most cases won’t be used, as new residents park on already over crowded adjoining roads.
Less jobs, and more housing!
More housing for immigrants…