Maritime Innovation Centre plans approved

Torridge District Council has resolved to grant planning permission for its amended plans for the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre.

The amended designs, submitted in July 2024, were a response to public feedback and shifting market demands.

The new plans aim to optimise the lettable area by reducing ancillary spaces while ensuring that the building meets both current and future market needs. 

Notably, the height and scale of the structure have been adjusted, with the complete removal of the second floor and a reduction in the first-floor area. 

Additionally, the first floor of the existing Benson Building has been eliminated to address concerns regarding overlooking from neighbouring properties.

Traffic flow has also been improved, with only one access point to the site remaining. 

This change follows residents' feedback about potential congestion; the previous proposal for a second access point onto New Quay Street has been scrapped, simplifying vehicle movements around the site.

BAM Construction has been selected to collaborate with Torridge District Council in securing planning consent and finalising designs. 

A main construction contract is expected to be awarded in early 2025, with construction anticipated to begin shortly thereafter.

To foster local engagement, an event will be held later this month in Appledore, allowing local businesses to meet the contractor and learn about upcoming work opportunities.

Councillor Ken James, Leader of Torridge District Council, said: "We strongly believe that these amendments ensure that we have the right plans for the right location, to ensure that Appledore and Torridge will be at the forefront of innovation and investment in clean maritime energy. With the resolution to grant permission, we are now looking forward to working with our Contractor to get started on the building and construction works for this exciting project. By getting as many local trades people involved in the build as possible, we hope that this will just the start of future job creation and investment in Appledore and Torridge."