Three-storey extension of 28 flats to be added at top of Cresta House development

The proposals are for nine one-bedroom, 17 two-bed and two three-bedroom apartments in a three-storey extension at Cresta House in Alma Street.

The 1.4-acre site is a large seven- and eight-storey building opposite the Galaxy Centre, and close to St George’s Square.

A previous project for 36 flats inside the premises from applicant Leos Luton Development Limited was granted planning permission a year ago.

The company submitted full plans to provide 28 more apartments, with changes to the building, bicycle storage and amenity areas.

The development is a contemporary scheme considered to be of exceptional design, according to a report to the borough council’s development control committee.

“A 1960s office block, Cresta House appears as it was originally built and suffers from an outdated character, with similarly poor and inconspicuous buildings within the vicinity,” said the report.

The new plans relate well “to the history of the site in its former life as the Alma Theatre and the fundamental characteristics and form of the existing building”.

Associate director at Savills Mia Scaggiante, who was representing the applicant, said: “There are a number of benefits being provided.

“Each flat exceeds the nationally prescribed standards. There’s a roof garden for residents.

“It’ll be a high quality design and a parking free development.”

Principal planning officer Graham Dore described it as “a highly sustainable form of residential development” in a building currently being converted into apartments.

“The housing mix is considered strong in relation to the borough’s identified needs,” he said.

“Future occupiers will be offered a quality living environment.

“The application consists of an important piece of regenerative development in the locality.”

There were two representations from neighbouring premises mainly concerning visual impact and loss of light.

But the plans “wouldn’t result in significant visual intrusion or loss of outlook to surrounding residential properties”, added the report.

Liberal Democrat Barnfield councillor David Franks said: “The proposed new elevation is a massive improvement over the very dated 1960s frontage we’ve got there now.

“The prime reason I voted for it (previously) is the improvement to the appearance of the building.

“How can we be sure the new cladding will happen and will it be self-cleaning?” he asked.

Mr Dore replied: “We can capture that in an informative, or a breach of planning condition notice which carries more bite.”

Head of development management Sunny Sahadevan said: “Once permission is granted, the applicant may not necessarily implement the cladding.

“We can adjust the condition so that the new units consented can’t be occupied until the external appearance of the building is completed.”

Labour Farley councillor Dave Taylor, who chairs the committee, said: “It’s in a prominent position in the town centre, so it has to be acceptable.”

Councillors unanimously approved the scheme.