383 build-to-rent flats at Matalan Unit B-C Danestrete, Stevenage

The site and earlier approvals

The site is the former Matalan store and western car park, with Phase 1 completed and Phase 2 comprising Blocks A, B, E and F.

“The application site comprises the balance of the land previously occupied by the former Matalan retail store and the car park to the west. The site is located on the west side of Danestrete, bordered by Danesgate to the north and Lytton Way to the west. The site adjoins the Council Offices and Magistrates' Court to the north separated by Danesgate. To the west on the opposite side of Lytton Way is the Police Station.”

“The development phasing of the proposal comprised a two-phase delivery with Phase 1 including Blocks C and D (143 units). A series of S96a non-material amendment applications were submitted and approved between 2021 to 2025 in relation to Phase 1 of the approved scheme. Phase 1 has been completed and is now occupied as affordable rented flats.”

Officer report

Changes to Phase 2

Blocks B and E would become six storeys, Block F would rise to ten storeys, and the homes would be delivered through two sub-phases.

“Buildings B and E have been unified in height to six storeys, bringing them below the Building Safety Act (BSA) Higher-Risk Building (HRB) threshold. In contrast, Building F has been increased to ten storeys, strengthening its role as a visual marker within the townscape and consolidating the HRB components into a single defined phase along with Block A at 20 storeys. Block A remains unchanged from the original Reserved Matters approval.”

“As a result, there are also minor associated amendments to car and cycle parking provision, internal layout, configuration of non-residential ground floor uses and limited introduction of residential use at ground floor. The proposed amendments would not increase the total number of residential homes, which remains at 383. However, the internal configuration and housing mix are revised to improve compliance, efficiency and viability.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Team Leader presented the amended application and explained the proposed heights, layout, parking and sustainable travel arrangements.

What members discussed

Members debated parking, future transport, family housing, social housing, contributions, car clubs and whether cycle storage would meet demand.

“Members stated that the application did not sufficiently consider future transport developments, such as the growth of electric vehicles. Officers clarified that the current application sought only minor amendments to an already approved scheme, largely related to building height changes and internal reconfiguration to accommodate a build to rent model.”

“Members questioned whether the level of cycle storage proposed would be adequate to support and encourage active travel. In response, the Team Leader confirmed that the number and design of the cycle spaces were in accordance with the Council’s Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) on parking provision. The Officer advised arrangements were sufficient to meet anticipated demand based on likely levels of cycle ownership among future residents.”

Minutes

The committee vote

The committee granted permission after a recorded vote, with ten councillors voting for, one against and no abstentions.

“A recorded vote* was taken on the application and it was RESOLVED that planning permission be GRANTED subject to the following conditions:”

Minutes