Milton Keynes cinema The Point to be demolished for new flats
The council had listed seven reasons for refusal, but discussions before and during the inquiry reduced that number to two.One of the complaints was that the building did not deliver an acceptable level of affordable housing, but the claimant agreed to pay £690,009 towards the provision of affordable housing elsewhere in Milton Keynes.The two remaining concerns were related to The Point's status as a non-designated heritage asset and the potential effect on the nearby Grade II listed shopping centre.Although the inspector noted the old cinema had "a special place in the memory of the people of Milton Keynes", he concluded it "has clearly outlived its purpose, and there are no realistic prospects for its effective re-use."The inspector ruled any impact on the shopping centre would be minimal.
Discussions took place during the inquiry about how to include a "nod or reference back" to The Point in the new development. The inspector's view was that retaining physical parts of the existing building would be "all too predictable and indeed tokenistic".Instead, he preferred a more "subtle and considered response", such as adding red lighting to the top of the buildings to evoke memories of The Point.In a statement, Galliard Homes said it was delighted with the appeal decision.It continued: "Our plans will transform this prominent site, which has been vacant for nearly 20 years, into a dynamic mixed-use destination."At the heart of the proposals is a commitment to celebrating the legacy of The Point."Milton Keynes Council has been approached for comment.
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