Torridge District Council submits revised plans for Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre

Torridge District Council has announced the submission of revised plans for the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre (ACMIC), following a thorough consultation process with the public and stakeholders.

The updated application, identified as ref: 1/1179/2023/LA, reflects significant changes based on community feedback and evolving construction cost considerations.

The revised plans address two primary concerns raised during the consultation. 

Firstly, the height of the building has been reduced significantly. 

In response to feedback about the scale and potential impact on the area, the updated design removes the entire second floor, reduces the extent of the first floor, and eliminates the first floor of the Benson Building to address issues of overlooking.

Secondly, the revised plans simplify site access in response to traffic concerns from residents. 

The original proposal included two access points, one of which was to be located on New Quay Street to serve a car park. 

The new plans consolidate access to a single point, aiming to streamline vehicle movements and reduce congestion around the site.

Councillor Ken James, Leader of Torridge District Council, commented on the updates: “Whilst this a positive and considered response to public feedback, the revised plans also consider ongoing construction cost inflation.  As such, we have looked to improve the efficiency of the building, by optimising the lettable area, reducing ancillary spaces and ensuring that the completed building fully responds to current and future market requirements.  We strongly believe that these amendments ensure that we have the right plans for the right location, which we hope will put Appledore and Torridge at the forefront of innovation and investment in clean maritime energy.”

The updated plans for the ACMIC are now available for public viewing on the Torridge District Council Portal. 

The revised scheme is scheduled to be presented to the planning committee for final approval in the Autumn.