The Gloucester City Council's Planning Committee met on Tuesday 6 October 2026 to discuss the proposed development at Clapham Court, Alvin Street. The committee considered a revised scheme for the demolition of the existing Clapham Court building and the erection of 34 new dwellings, a replacement pharmacy, community garden, new access, parking, and landscaping.

Clapham Court, Alvin Street, Gloucester

The committee considered a proposal for the demolition of Clapham Court and the construction of 34 new dwellings, a replacement pharmacy, community garden, new access, parking, and landscaping. The proposal includes a mix of 13 houses and 21 flats, all designated as affordable housing for social rent. The development would consist of two blocks: a six-storey apartment block with a pharmacy on the ground floor, and a terrace of ten two-storey, three-bedroom homes.

Concerns were raised by local residents and councillors regarding parking provision, with objections highlighting existing capacity issues on Alvin Street and surrounding areas. While the revised scheme increased parking from nine to 21 spaces, some felt this was still insufficient for the proposed family dwellings. The Highways Authority raised no objection, stating that the provision was acceptable in highway terms and that the site's sustainable location would encourage alternative transport.

The previous refusal of a similar application in 2024 was primarily due to overlooking and overbearing impacts on neighbouring properties in Union Street, and non-compliance with estate regeneration policy A3. The revised scheme addressed these concerns by reducing the height of the northern block to two storeys and repositioning the apartment block. The committee was satisfied that these changes overcame the previous amenity issues.

The development would provide 100% affordable housing, secured through a Section 106 agreement, with all units to be social rent. The scheme also includes a replacement pharmacy, considered a material consideration and a community facility. The demolition of the existing Clapham Court building was deemed acceptable due to its poor physical condition and the financial viability of refurbishment, despite the loss of embodied carbon.

The development is subject to numerous conditions, including those relating to construction management, landscaping, waste management, and the provision of accessible homes. A Section 106 agreement will secure the affordable housing provision and a rehousing strategy for any remaining residents.

The committee debated the proposal, with significant discussion around parking and its impact on the local area. Following the debate, the committee voted to grant planning permission, with one abstention.