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Plans to retrofit a “dilapidated and unsightly” construction with new homes have been welcomed by citizens, although some worry about the lack of parking spaces.
The former Hutchings Motorcycles shop in Deal is at the centre of proposals to redevelop part of South Street and Middle Street to include four stores and 11 homes.
Developer Mark Woolls, who runs Pier View Amusements in Deal and Dymchurch Amusement Park in Romney Marsh, is tasked with demolishing the former cycle shop and adding two more floors.
Residents have shown their support for the project and many praised the “sensitive” designs.
But the parties in conflict share their considerations about the “car-free” nature of the project, to the extent that it includes parking spaces.
Neighbor Charlotte Manners, who wrote to Dover District Council (DDC) to oppose the plan, said: “I already have massive disruption from parking in the area, at all hours of the day, even though I have a licence.
“How much worse will this be? I dread to think.
“Parking should be planned for when erecting new homes in the town centre.”
Her concerns have been echoed by Deal Town Council (DTC) which has objected to the proposals, calling the scheme an “over-intensive use of the site”.
The authority adds: “There is a lack of parking spaces”.
Mr Woolls previously said the lack of parking will not be a problem due to the development’s links to public transport.
The homes will also have bicycle parking according to the room.
Kent County Council’s director of highways and shipping assessed the proposals and said a lack of parking was noted, the site is in a “sustainable location” and nearby public car parks could be used simply to “meet demand of parking”.
They added: “There are parking controls on the surrounding streets, but public car parks have no restrictions after 6pm and adequately cater for the low numbers related to the city’s night-time economy.
“It is feasible that residents would be able to park overnight after returning from work, but they would have to find an alternative solution for parking outside of those times.
“The logistics of residents having to find alternative parking arrangements when needing to leave their vehicles during daytime hours, both on weekdays and at weekends, may be sufficient to deter most from vehicle ownership.”
Five comments were submitted in support of the request from others who say the projects will improve the appearance of the “neglected” component of the city.
Resident Martin Horncastle said: “I am inspired by the thoughtful technique adopted to improve the character and capacity of this traditionally vital but once overlooked component of our community.
“This has required attention for a long time and it is encouraging to see plans that prioritize preservation and progress.
“The introduction of retail spaces within the development not only brings much-needed investment but also offers job opportunities, benefiting local residents and fostering economic growth.”
John Jones said he also welcomed the proposals, adding: “I am taking on this task because there is strong demand for new homes in Deal and I also welcome new businesses into the domain that offer prosperity, jobs and choice.
“The asset is dilapidated and unsightly. »
Documents submitted to the DDC through Kirthrough Cove Architects, on behalf of Mr. Woolls, show that the former motorcycle shop and adjacent unit recently used through The Taphouse bar will be demolished to make the development.
Four will be created on the ground floor and two plots will be added to house six apartments.
One of the new retail outlets will be purpose-built and earmarked for The Taphouse’s move so that business can continue as usual.
A three-storey building adjacent to the Hutchings site, which currently houses two apartments, will also be demolished from the renovation.
Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.
Five semi-detached houses were also included in the plans, along with two patio spaces and storage rooms for bicycles and rubbish.
In 2020, similar proposals were put forward by the former owner of Hutchings Motorcycles.
Peter Hutchings, who ran the business for 40 years, had hoped the site would be converted into two self-contained apartments, a maisonette with two advertising units.
The plans were approved, never submitted, and the shop closed last year.
The DDC is expected to deal with Woolls’ candidacy until Jan. 21.
© KM Group 2025