Vassall Centre decision delayed

COUNCIL officers have recommended approval for controversial plans to redevelop the Vassall Centre in Oldbury Court.

But a decision on planning permission, which was due to be made at a meeting in April, has been postponed to May 31 at the earliest, so councillors can visit the site before they vote.

Owner Bristol Charities wants to demolish the site's existing singlestorey buildings, built in 1945 and currently providing affordable and accessible working areas, a conference centre and café for disability charities and non-profit organisations.

It wants to build 90 new affordable homes for older people in need, families and smaller households, as well as specialist supported housing for adults with learning disabilities.

The plans also include new buildings to replace the existing facilities, with office space, meeting places, a cafe and a space either for a nursery or non-residential training centre.

More than 90 objections have now been lodged to the plans, ranging from the size of the three-storey buildings proposed for the site, and the loss of light and privacy for neighbouring homes, to the effect on parking and road safety, inadequate public transport, concerns over the consultation process and Bristol City Council's "neutrality" in making a decision as it is involved in renting units at the site.

Recommending approval, officers said the scheme was an opportunity to "retain and improve" the centre's services, adding: "The proposed positive aspects of the proposal far outweigh any negatives and it is recommended that permission be granted."

A group opposing the plans, Vassall Centre Neighbours group, said: "We'd like to say a thank you to residents for submitting their statements to the public forum, and to keep their eyes open for the new committee date."