By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Plans to build a new six-storey building at Gloucester Docks have been pulled amid concerns over the impact it would have had on traditional shipbuilders T. Nielsen and Company Limited.
The Canal and River Trust has withdrawn their proposals to build 141 flats at West Quay between Llanthony Road and Severn Road.
The scheme, which had been submitted to Gloucester City Council, were designed to provide a mix of one and two bedroom apartments specifically for rent.
And included refurbishing the existing warehouse to be used as a multi-use social space with gym, games area, parcel storage and reception.
Demolishing two older industrial buildings to make way for the new homes was part of the plans.
However, that scheme has since been withdrawn after talks between the developers and city planners.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Sarah Sawyer (Longlevens), the city council’s cabinet member for planning, said the application was withdrawn because, in its current state, it would have had a negative impact on nearby traditional shipbuilders T. Nielsen and Company.
“Our Gloucester city plan explicitly says that any development in this area can not impact on their business, they are world leaders in their field and we want to protect them,” she said.
“We welcome further conversations with the applicant should they wish to make another application in the future to bring this site forward in a policy compliant way.”
Concern over the impact the plans would have on the shipbuilders was also raised by objectors.
“The transverse warehouse behind Fox’s Malting and the public space behind the new Llanthony Road buildings cut into the land required for storage and project work on the shipyard site affecting its operation and viability,” one objector said in their formal response to the planning application.
“Without an agreed way forward, it is difficult to see how this application can be approved in line with the above policies.
“When Gloucester Docks received Heritage Harbour status in September 2024 it was on the recognition of the balance between the modern docks and its past; the heritage skills and work of the shipyard are key in this.”
Councillor Rebecca Trimnell (LD, Westgate), who represents the area at the city council and county council, said is pleased the plans had been withdrawn.
“It is vitally important to protect the historic charm of our dockland area.,” she said.
“The proposed design clashed with the area’s maritime heritage, I was concerned about the impact of this development on the renowned and reputable, historic boat building business Nielsen and Co Ltd.
“Moreover, I felt the height of the development would change the skyline and overall appearance and vibe of the historic dockyard both permanently and negatively.
“It was also totally unrealistic to claim that none of the 141 flats of the proposed development would own a car and therefore there was insufficient car parking to accommodate the size of this development.
“I am in no rush to see another redesigned proposal, but if there is one then it needs to be a significant improvement on this last, withdrawn proposal”
A spokesperson for H2O Urban, the developers for the Canal and River Trust site, said they withdrew the application after a productive dialogue with planners.
They plan to fully address the substance of consultee comments with a view to submitting new plans.
“We look forward to making an updated submission in the next few months,” a spokesperson said.
“We remain confident that our proposed residential development represents a positive opportunity to regenerate West Quay – one of the last underused parts of Gloucester Docks – and to deliver much-needed new homes within the city.”
T. Nielsen & Company have been approached for comment.