Chepstow's £40 million riverbank revamp to go ahead (From Free Press Series)

Chepstow's £40 million riverbank revamp to go ahead

1:17pm Wednesday 17th March 2010

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A CONTROVERSIAL plan for a £40 million redevelopment of Chepstow’s riverbank was approved by councillors.

Monmouthshire County Council’s planning committee gave the go-ahead to the 2.4-hectare site at Lower Church Street, which will include 56 houses, 113 flats, eight office units, a café and a riverside walkway with a lookout deck over the River Wye.

Approval was also given for the demolition of the Osborn International factory and Furniture Smart buildings where the development will be located.

Chepstow Properties Ltd. owns the land currently occupied by Osborn International and believes the development will rejuvenate the riverbank, transforming it into a promenade attractive to tourists and locals.

But the plans are controversial with 29 objections received during consultation citing problems including traffic, protection of the conservation area, lack of parking, air quality and building design.

But the plans also received 33 letters of support from local residents who believe the development will boost trade, create jobs, enhance tourism and fulfil demands for new homes in the area.

Provision has been made for 34 affordable homes, 267 parking spaces, a play area and a courtyard and lawn to be used as a public space.

Building heights range from four-storey apartment blocks to two-storey houses and the site will be accessed from Lower Church Street and The Back.

The site is currently under threat of flooding and the development will be elevated to 60cm above the projected 200-year flood level for 2048, which would protect it for more than 200 years beyond 2048.

Work on the site must begin within the next five years.

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