Content

8.1

The Milton St neighbourhood, as
identified within the City Centre Strategic Vision, is emerging as
a new residential area within the wider Devonshire Quarter. This
report provides an update on ongoing regeneration schemes within
the area and seeks a steer on a proposed land disposal strategy to
ensure a balanced mix of housing. It also considers proposals from
the owners of the Grade II* Listed Beehive Works to bring that
building back into use as a mixed-use commercial hub at the heart
of the neighbourhood.

8.2

RESOLVED
UNANIMOUSLY: That the Transport,
Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee:-
 

1.    
notes the progress with housing development shown in
the update report at Appendix A,
 

2.    
notes the future land disposal strategy outlined in
Appendix B to ensure a balanced mix of housing within the Milton St
neighbourhood; and
 

3.    
notes the proposals outlined for Beehive Works at
Appendix C and supports the continued work of Council officers with
the owners and other partners, including Historic England, to
develop a viable business plan to bring the buildings back into
commercial use.

8.3

Reasons for Decision

8.3.1

Focussing the Council’s
future land disposal strategy on achieving a more balanced
residential offer aligns with the guiding principles for
regeneration in this area as set out in the Priority Neighbourhood
Frameworks, which envisage a mixed demographic in the Milton St
neighbourhood. The guiding principles emphasise the importance of
retaining the former industrial feel – celebrating the
historic assets – and the proposed rejuvenation of Beehive
Works as a commercial building, including maker spaces, would
enhance the sense of place and preserve a historic identity for the
emerging neighbourhood.

8.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

8.4.1

Rather than balancing the
residential offer within the neighbourhood, the Council could focus
its disposal strategy – in term of land use and phasing
– on maximising capital receipts. However, this may not make
the same contribution towards delivering the City Goals, Council
Plan or City Centre Strategic Vision.