Developer Godwin Developments and Lowesmoor Regeneration Ltd have submitted revised plans for its waterside mixed-used scheme Lowesmoor Wharf in Worcester
The Lowesmoor Wharf scheme is a regeneration scheme of eight buildings and public spaces, designed by architects Apt.
Lowesmoor Wharf will provide 238 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with balconies. Occupants will have access to private indoor and outdoor spaces – such as rooftop terraces and community areas – across the six residential buildings.
The scheme will also deliver office, retail and food and beverage space.
Revised plans
As a direct response to the feedback received from planners, the community and various organisations, the height of the tallest element of the scheme has now been significantly reduced to match the requirements of the Worcester City Masterplan.
The scheme now steps up from three to a maximum of eight storeys at Lowesmoor Terrace, with two of the canal facing buildings having also been reduced by a storey each.
An expert assessment on the visual impact of the amended proposals – also submitted as a part of the revised plans – has been carried out and demonstrates that views of Worcester Cathedral and other significant landmarks in the city are not compromised.
Additionally, the proposed hard and soft landscaping throughout the scheme has been improved to include suggestions by Worcester City Council and the Canal & River Trust, the charity with guardianship over the UK’s waterways.
The blend of new materials, that are better suited to the conservation area have been supplemented by additional trees and wildflower areas, which will improve the biodiversity of the site.
New landscaping features have also been included to better define the towpaths and walkways, balancing accessibility for residents and visitors with security for existing boat users and businesses.
Improvements to the servicing of the scheme have also been introduced, protecting the marina and minimising waste vehicle trips across the development.
As with the previous proposals, the scheme will continue to prioritise the use of walking and cycling, as well as public transport and therefore will be mostly car-free. However, as an additional amenity, it will include 12 car parking spaces and operate a ‘car club’ model for the benefit of residents.
‘Lowesmoor Wharf is able to deliver on all improvements to the public space’
Development director at Godwin Developments, Matt Chandler, said: “Lowesmoor Wharf is a scheme of exceptional quality and outstanding design but most of all a scheme of ambition – to bring new residents, visitors and businesses to central Worcester and retain them through an exciting destination that caters to living, working, socialising and being closer to nature.
“We have always believed in the huge potential of this centrally located site in Worcester and have sought to create a development which will benefit the local community. Therefore, since submitting our original planning application last year, we have listened and responded to a number of comments to our plans.
“Working closely with stakeholders and our expert consultants, we have not only amended the scheme to reflect the feedback received but also ensure that Lowesmoor Wharf is viable and able to deliver on all the improvements to the public space we were hoping to achieve.
“We are grateful to those who have engaged and worked with us constructively over the last few months and helped us shape the plans which we are excited to bring forward today.
“I am confident that this development fits well with Worcester’s vision for the future. It is both forward-looking in its design and sustainability, seeking to create new spaces for people, attract investment and benefit the local community, while also responding to the city’s rich heritage and supporting it in its post-Covid recovery.”
