DEVELOPERS want to increase the number of flats being built on the site of the old Vinegar Works in Worcester.
Plans for 98 flats on land opposite St Martin’s Gate car park were approved by Worcester City Council’s planning committee in October.
Now Worcester Developments Ltd wants to increase the number of flats to 102.
It has submitted a type of planning application called a non-material amendment to the council.
These cover small changes that do not increase the building’s size, impact neighbours or change approved conditions.
Tom Higginson, of architects Corstorphine & Wright, said the purpose is to “respond to current market conditions and optimise the approved residential offer, whilst remaining fully within the parameters of the consented scheme”.
“The internal changes seek to provide a more balanced and sustainable housing mix,” he said in a covering letter included in the planning documents.
“In particular, the proposals reduce the proportion of one-bedroom units and increase the number of two-bedroom homes, thereby supporting a broader, more family-oriented offer.
“This approach reflects current demand and enhances the long-term viability and deliverability of the scheme.
“In parallel, the revised layouts allow for a more efficient use of the approved floorplate, resulting in a modest increase in the total number of units from 98 to 102, all accommodated within the previously approved building envelope.”
The architect said “minor elevation amendments” are proposed that “improve the overall composition” of the outside of the building but do materially alter its appearance.
“Overall, the amendments represent a series of minor refinements which significantly improve the quality, usability, and viability of the scheme, while maintaining full compliance with the approved design intent.”
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At a planning meeting in October, planning chair Karen Lewing said the building’s design was “so much better” than previous plans approved by the council in 2016.
Planning officer Paul Round also said the proposal was a “marked improvement” on the previously-approved scheme”.
But councillors including Reform’s Alan Amos and Lib Dem John Rudge raised concerns about “nose-to-tail” traffic in the area.