New student block approved despite opposition

A plan for a new student block in Coventry with up to 400 bedrooms has been rubberstamped to go ahead despite a petition opposing it.

The University of Warwick aims to demolish buildings at the County Scaffolding builder's yard in Westwood Heath Road, next to its main campus on the edge of the city.

A planning notice backing the plan, for the accommodation along with car and cycle parking, was issued by the Coventry City council this month.

However the petition, with more than 100 signatures, opposes it on the grounds of "an oversupply of student accommodation" - but planners have stressed the oversupply relates only to city centre blocks for Coventry University students.

Outline planning permission was granted for the development in April, subject to a number of conditions and a legal agreement that has been reached.

City planners agreed with councillors that the city centre was "saturated" with student dormitories.

However, the outlying area around Warwick University campus is considered separate and there is currently not enough accommodation to meet demand, they said.

In contrast, there are vacancies in central Coventry student blocks, with one hall of residence forced into receivership as a result.

Its owners have asked for permission to let 50 of its apartments to city workers.

Conditions attached to the Westwood Heath Road plan include requiring the council to approve exact appearance, layout, scale and landscaping plans for the student block when more detailed proposals are submitted later.

Other conditions include measures to ensure protected species, including great crested newts, toads, bats, badgers and hedgehogs, are not harmed by the scheme.

Trees must also be protected if they are of "significant amenity value" and provide an "enhanced standard of appearance to the development."

There is also a rule that the student accommodation will be occupied by no more than 400 permanent residents at any time "to ensure that the development is not used in an over-intensive manner" and neighbours are not disturbed.

A total of 20 parking spaces are planned, aimed mainly at Blue Badge holders and for the occasional dropping off and picking up of students.

It is envisaged as a "car-free development" where people would instead rely on local bus, cycle and pedestrian routes.

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